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03/02/2004
Rathgael centre 'positive and purposeful' says Minister
Criminal Justice Minister, John Spellar has welcomed the 'positive and purposeful atmosphere' in the refurbished Juvenile Justice Centre at Rathgael in Co Down.
The Centre became fully operational in October last year replacing the previous facility at Lisnevin.
Speaking during a tour of the Centre Mr Spellar said: "I am impressed by what is being achieved here. The atmosphere is positive and purposeful and both the young people and staff are adapting very well to the new surroundings and routine.
"The strong focus on education is clear and I pay tribute to the commitment and professionalism of staff as they give many troubled and challenging young people the opportunity to learn, develop and change.
"This facility is an excellent interim step before the planned purpose - built centre becomes available."
The Juvenile Justice Centre for Northern Ireland has a total capacity of around 40 places but normally operates well below that level. The current population is 20.
The Centre accommodates boys and girls who have been remanded into, or sentenced to, custody by the courts. The average age is almost 16.
The Centre will be replaced by a purpose-built facility on the same site by April 2006.
(MB)
The Centre became fully operational in October last year replacing the previous facility at Lisnevin.
Speaking during a tour of the Centre Mr Spellar said: "I am impressed by what is being achieved here. The atmosphere is positive and purposeful and both the young people and staff are adapting very well to the new surroundings and routine.
"The strong focus on education is clear and I pay tribute to the commitment and professionalism of staff as they give many troubled and challenging young people the opportunity to learn, develop and change.
"This facility is an excellent interim step before the planned purpose - built centre becomes available."
The Juvenile Justice Centre for Northern Ireland has a total capacity of around 40 places but normally operates well below that level. The current population is 20.
The Centre accommodates boys and girls who have been remanded into, or sentenced to, custody by the courts. The average age is almost 16.
The Centre will be replaced by a purpose-built facility on the same site by April 2006.
(MB)
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