Kingston.
The Human Rights Group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) has warned the Government to be careful in is deouncing an online petition showing the plight of children in conflict with the law.
Youth Minister, Lisa Hanna; National Security Minister, Peter Bunting and Justice Minister, Mark Golding, in a joint statement described the JFJ’s petition as disingenuous, dishonest, and dangerous and said it was designed to damage Jamaica’s reputation.
According to JFJ’s executive director, Dr Carolyn Gomes the accusations could provide cause for the human rights group to take legal action as she insists the online petition is factually grounded.
Gomes says the response from the Government confirms that the Administration has not addressed the issues raised in the petition.
The three Government Ministers in their joint statement accused the JFJ of being in opposition mode, tearing down efforts to improve the condition of children after refusing to participate in a taskforce of volunteers to address children’s issues.
This accusation was dismissed by Gomes who says the JFJ withdrew from the group as there was too much focus on public relations and the revision of reports already studied despite suggestions to change the operation of the taskforce.
Comes said JFJ has never set out to embarrass any government in its 14-year existence and that it only wants to ensure that the governments live up to their responsibility to protect vulnerable Jamaicans.
The Government Ministers in their statement said the Attorney General's office was reviewing the petition to see if any sanctions are applicable.
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