Aimee McVeigh’s Post

Adding to the list of crucially important items for the next programme for government: 1. Transition to a system of universal, rights-based, public early childhood education and care (a right for every child, from birth) 2. Alignment of parental leave and ECEC rights and policies 3. Integration of ECEC in a multi-sectoral policy framework in line with the EU Child Guarantee and international standards 4. A Minister of State for ECEC

Going backwards. Out of step with the rest of the world. The decision to decrease age of criminal responsibility could be considered a racist policy given its significantly disproportionate adverse impact on indigenous Australians in the territory. How do you balance democratic process which can actually harm a section of population.

As discussions turn towards Government formation, there are a number of key areas affecting children that should be included in the new Programme for Government. Specifically: 👉 Fully incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child into law. 👉Child-rights-based budgeting and multi-annual budgeting for children’s services. 👉An independent complaints mechanism in the early year’s sector. 👉Child specific homelessness strategy. Critically, the next Government must include a strong and well-resourced Department of Children.  Read our full list of priorities for the 34th Dáil term here: https://lnkd.in/dAkZWq5A

Today the Fiji Government made history in our region, by introducing a Bill to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14, and actively intervene to support children in conflict with the law. The Hon. Minister Tabuya also introduced a Child Protection Bill that is world leading in its approach, and supports the aims of the Child Justice Bill. This move is vital to the rights of the child. But will it keep the community safe? The younger a child is at their first arrest, the greater their chances of future offending. A study of incarcerated youth found that children arrested before the age of 14 are three times more likely to reoffend as adults, compared to children arrested when they are over the age of 14 years. Research unequivocally shows that in countries where the MACR is higher than average, offending rates in older youth are lower. It has been a privilege to go on this journey with Fiji! We are not done yet :-)

This presentation will center on the history of solitary confinement and current issues. Participants will learn about current issues regarding solitary confinement on Rikers Island. Participants will learn about ethical concerns regarding social workers and how they can be involved. This presentation will also present laws that have been passed and laws that have not been passed yet. Participants will learn about organizations that are addressing inhumane conditions on Rikers Island and how they can advocate for justice impacted individuals. Register at link in bio or at https://lnkd.in/ecTYHxK5

The Queensland Government has introduced significant proposed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 1992, aiming to reshape the youth justice system. These changes signal a dramatic shift in how youth offenders are managed, with significant implications for victims, young people, and justice stakeholders. Submissions are open here, but the timeframe is very short: https://lnkd.in/gUrgYpFG #socialwork #youthjustice #qld

Australian Human Rights Commission new report highlights the need for prevention and early intervention to keep vulnerable children out of the justice system. By prioritising child wellbeing and safety, we can reduce the chances of children entering the criminal justice system. Governments must act on the evidence and collaborate across health, education, social services, and justice to protect children and young people and ensure safer communities. Read the full report and recommendations: ‘Help way earlier! How Australia can transform child justice to improve safety and wellbeing.’ 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gjdjyz2s #AusHumanRights

Adult Crime, Adult Time ignores the evidence base on what works in addressing the cycle of youth offending. Early intervention, diversion and rehabilitation approaches need to be the focus.

🚨 Parliament in Action: 42 Committees Meet This Week 🚨 This week, Parliament is buzzing with activity as 42 committees convene to tackle crucial issues, from infrastructure to social development. Additionally, key sessions include the Deputy President answering oral questions in the National Assembly, along with updates from the Police Ministry on addressing extortion threats. These discussions are vital for anyone monitoring policy shifts and their potential impact on business and society. Get the full details here: https://lnkd.in/dgxf5vvE #ParliamentaryUpdates #PolicyImpact #OralQuestions #BusinessStrategy #SouthAfrica

The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that penalizing unhoused people for sleeping outside when there is no available shelter does not violate the U.S. Constitution’s prohibition against “cruel and unusual” punishment. “Today’s opinion leaves the most vulnerable in our society with an impossible choice: stay awake or face arrest,” says Ian Courts, SCSJ’s Counsel for Justice System Reform. “For those with nowhere else to go, this is a cruel and unusual punishment — another coercive tool for those who want to look away from poverty instead of being their neighbor’s keeper.” While this decision is distressing, local and state governments must act responsibly and compassionately. We urge policymakers to turn away from criminalizing poverty and instead focus on humane solutions. At the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, we remain committed to protecting and defending the most vulnerable populations across the South. Together, we can stop the criminalization of poverty and ensure justice for all. https://lnkd.in/edxeTK3X