APNU insist on independent investigation at NOC

 

By Kurt Campbell

[www.inewsguyana.com] – The main opposition party – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – is insisting that there should be an immediate independent investigation into the operations at the Onderneeming Essequibo based juvenile detention center – the New Opportunity Corps (NOC).

The call was made earlier this week by Alliance For Change (AFC), Parliamentarian Trevor Williams.

When asked about his response to those calls yesterday, Youth Minister Dr. Frank Anthony posited that there was no need for such an inquiry as he recalled the inquiry into the 2012 breakout, burning and destruction of properties and the ongoing investigation by the Child Car and Protection Agency into allegations of sexual molestation of students by staff.

However, according to Opposition Leader David Granger while those inquiries are related to specific incidents, there is the need for an independent investigation into the overall operations of the institution.

He was without a doubt that there are malpractices at the facility and it must be investigated. Dr. Anthony had said that he has every intention to treat with confirmed and verified acts of misconduct seriously and to ensure that those persons found culpable is dealt with accordingly.

He said it must also be observed that there are penalties for persons who make false statement and allegations. Dr. Anthony also urged Opposition Members of Parliament, whom he described as “very vocal” on the matter [Christopher Jones, Trevor Williams] to ensure they work genuinely with parents to resolve the issues instead of using it for political reasons.