THE EDITOR, Sir:
AS A new resident of Kingston, the level of debate focusing upon crime and punishment articulated in the columns of this newspaper has impressed me. Professor Headley's article on restorative justice earlier this month reflected initiatives working successfully in the UK.
My interest derives from my work as a youth court magistrate in Oxford where Sir Charles Pollard first introduced restorative justice when he was Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police. He recognised the benefits such principles could bring to the criminal justice system having observed it working successfully in New South Wales. Other UK police forces have been keen to follow his approach.
At an international level, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have developed and implemented Restorative justice principles into their justice systems.
Restorative justice is not a soft option for young offenders; there is no place to hide. They have to account for their crimes and witness the impact of their criminality. For many, this is the first time they have truly considered the consequences of their actions and been prepared to take responsibility. It is a painful but often enlightening experience. Victims do not have the last say in the UK legal process but Restorative justice allows their voice to be heard under the direction of skilled facilitators through 'conferencing,' a process which brings victim and offender together.
Restorative justice offers a framework that extends beyond the criminal justice system. Potentially it provides a model for resolving neighbourhood disputes, grievances within corporate organisations and disciplinary problems in educational institutions.
It would be naive to believe that Restorative justice could be the magic wand to wave away crime in Jamaica or the UK, but like Professor Headley, I sincerely believe that bringing victim and offender together gives a personal perspective on the impact of crime on the individual, their families and the wider community.
I am etc.,
WENDY WILLIS
wendywillisinjamaica@hotmail.com
Kingston
