Children and detention

Letter to the Editor - The Age
19 February 2004

Dear Sir/Madam

Marc Purcell's comments drawing parallels with Nazi Germany (Damaging children, in our name, 17 February) are offensive. Moreover, the article is riddled with inaccuracies and misinformation.

The Government does not deliberately split up families in detention. In fact, its view is that it is best for children to remain with their parents, a belief shared by State child welfare agencies and consistent with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The Government takes seriously its duty of care toward children in detention and works with State child welfare agencies to address any concerns. We notify State child welfare agencies of all incidences of suspected abuse or neglect, even where such incidences may appear to be minor or insignificant.

The number of notifications referred to by Mr Purcell reflects day-to-day incidents that might occur for any child, ranging from minor scratches and bruises to allegations that are more serious.

The welfare authorities determine appropriate responses to notifications. In the majority of cases, they find that no further action is needed.

Your word limitation prohibits a fuller response.

Stewart Foster
Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA