The Green Party is calling for the closure of Youth Justice Residences, citing concerns over their effectiveness in rehabilitation and the perpetuation of trauma among young people.
The call comes after a recent protest where a group of youth spent the night on the roof of an Oranga Tamariki justice facility. Green Party Spokesperson for Youth, Tamatha Paul, has stated that these residences are "child prisons" which fail to provide young people with meaningful life opportunities and instead perpetuate trauma and isolation.
Research by the Office of the Children's Commissioner has revealed inappropriate practices within some youth justice residences, including Korowai Manaaki. Tamatha Paul argues that these findings are not unique, but rather a product of politicians prioritizing votes over children's needs.
The Green Party believes that young people should be provided with support and opportunities to rebuild their lives, rather than being confined in prisons which fail to address their underlying issues.