NEW ZEALAND LAUNCHES BOOT CAMP FOR YOUNG OFFENDERS

WELLINGTON, July 20 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- As a part of the New Zealand government's plan to crack down on youth crime and get youth offenders back on track, the Military Style Academy was officially opened on Saturday, reported Xinhua. 

The first batch of 10 young people will begin their time on the Military Style Academy Pilot starting July 29 at the Youth Justice residence in Palmerston North, said New Zealand’s Minister for Children, Karen Chhour.

The first three months there will focus on structure and routine, addressing criminal behaviours, physical activities, education and vocational training, preparation for work and finding employment, as well as specific rehabilitative, therapeutic and cultural components required for each young person, Chhour said, adding that each one will have a consistent mentor throughout.

Following the residential component, the nine-month stage of the programme will be focused on supporting the young person to transition back into the community, she said, adding that families and communities will be engaged where possible for the full 12 months of the programme.

The programme was jointly designed and operated by the Ministry of Children, the New Zealand Defence Force, the Ministry of Justice, New Zealand Police and community groups.

However, the opposition Labour Party's children's affairs spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said sending these children to boot camps, most of whom have experienced abuse and suffered deep trauma, could cause further harm.

"This isn't a new idea, it's failed before and it risks failing again," Prime said.  

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA