by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance Drew focuses on treating the crime and violence issues in St. Kitts and Nevis as a public health crisis.
In the August 27 broadcast of The Roundtable, Dr Drew outlined new policies addressing the root causes of criminal behaviour, emphasising early intervention for children.
A central component of the strategy is the newly approved National Drug Policy, which aims to reduce drug demand.
“If you have demand for drugs, drugs will come. Somebody will find a way to do it. And with drugs come guns and so forth.”
The policy seeks to address drug addiction among vulnerable groups, including children, to reduce both drug trade and associated violence.
The government also plans to build a facility focused on drug use prevention and mental health services. Additionally, over 20 new family counsellors have been trained, the highest number in the country’s history, to assist families under stress and prevent issues that may lead to criminal behaviour.
“We want them all through the country so that we can capture wherever the issues are.”
Mental health services have been expanded by hiring additional professionals, including psychiatrists, a Ph. D.-level psychologist, and more school counsellors. Dr Drew emphasised the importance of early intervention in family dynamics and trauma resolution.
The number of structured programs, such as scouts and cadets in schools, has increased, and plans are underway to make participation in these programs mandatory.
Dr. Drew said, “We have expanded the C cadets, the infantry cadets, the scouts. And you will see them on display during our independence so that all children can have access to those [types] of structured programs.”
The government has introduced the Children’s Medical Services Program to address poverty-related issues and provide medical care for children from low-income families. This initiative aims to reduce family stress and prevent situations that could lead to criminal behaviour.
Family counsellors also provide support for victims of violent crimes and their families.
Dr Drew highlighted the Elevate Program, which includes counselling, training, and rehabilitation to assist individuals in reintegrating into society. The program has been extended to both male and female inmates, with attention given to mothers re-entering society after incarceration.
Dr. Drew revealed plans to establish a dedicated department within the government to manage these initiatives.
“This has to be a fundamental part of our governance structure. And that is why we want to make this department. If in the future somebody want to change it, it’s up to them. But hopefully, they will keep the essence of the program. But we are making sure that we have a department in government that deals specifically with this. Right now, we have a task force that will become a secretariat, that will become a department, and if needs be, can become a ministry.”
The comprehensive approach addresses crime and violence through multiple strategies, focusing on supporting and protecting the next generation.
