YOUNG Islanders allegedly involved in instances of antisocial behaviour on a St Saviour estate are not ‘untouchable’, the children’s commissioner has said.
Deborah McMillan made the comments after several residents of Les Cinq Chênes spoke out about problems with young people throwing stones and damaging property, among other things, despite an increased police presence in the area.
News of the antisocial behaviour triggered a wave of responses on social media, with some branding the children involved ‘untouchable’.
However, Mrs McMillan said that this was ‘not correct’ and maintained that the authorities did have the necessary powers to address the problem.
‘If children are in shared spaces causing antisocial behaviour and causing a nuisance, then of course that must be challenged – and the States police, honorary police, Andium [Homes], parents and other organisations like the Youth Service all have a role to play in thinking about these issues and how to solve them,’ she said.
‘The police have powers to deal with children who are acting in an unacceptable way and parents can still parent.’
One resident of Les Cinq Chênes estimated that the youngsters causing trouble ranged between six and 16 years old.
Mrs McMillan said: ‘If six-year-olds are out late at night without parental care, then that is a children’s social care issue. I don’t think that little ones of that age should be out on their own.
‘Children have been talking to us and they have said that one of their priorities is having more spaces and places where they can get together, have fun and develop their talents and abilities.’
