Queensland ombudsman backs away from calls to close youth prison so ‘unsuitable’ some children self-harm to get transferred
Queensland Ombudsman Anthony Reilly has faced criticism for not calling for the closure of the Wacol youth remand centre, a facility described as unsuitable for children. Reports indicate that the center's poor conditions have led to self-harm among inmates seeking transfers.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the tension between government bail laws and the humane treatment of youth in the justice system.
A toilet and shower in the admissions area of the Wacol youth remand centre, which was designed to be a police watch house. Photograph: Queensland ombudsman A toilet and shower in the admissions area of the Wacol youth remand centre, which was designed to be a police watch house. Photograph: Queensland ombudsman Queensland Queensland ombudsman backs away from calls to close youth prison so ‘unsuitable’ some children self-harm to get transferred Inmate advocacy group attacks watchdog’s ‘gutless retreat’ on Wacol youth remand centre
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Prefer the Guardian on Google The Queensland ombudsman has backed away from calls to close a youth prison so “unsuitable” for children that some are self-harming in an attempt to get transferred, amid concerns that the Crisafulli government’s hardline bail laws could create a new crowding crisis in police watch houses.
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