Gordon Harrison wants preliminary enquiries removed – News – Latest News – Jamaica Gleaner

Gordon Harrison wants preliminary enquiries removed – News – Latest News – Jamaica Gleaner.

The Children’s Advocate Diahann Gordon-Harrison says her office is in support of the removal of preliminary enquiries in matters before the court. 

Gordon-Harrison said this procedure further traumatises children, who are victims of a serious offence such as rape. 

She said this is particularly difficult when these children come face-to-face with the alleged perpetrators in the court. 

The children’s advocate adds that the slow pace at which matters go through the courts also adds to the trauma experienced by children who are victims of crime. 

In the meantime, Gordon-Harrison said her Office is partnering with the Office of Chief Parliamentary Council to have drafts Bills which may impact children sent to her agency for review and recommendations. 

The Children’s Advocate said her Office has taken note of instances where legislation is implemented and later found to infringe on the rights of children. 

She said the arrangement with the Chief Parliamentary Council is aimed at preventing such instances.