Joint Select Committee of Parliament begins review and report on “The Child Diversion Act, 2018”

Kingston, Jamaica: The eleven-member Joint Select Committee appointed by The House of Representatives to review and report on The Child Diversion Act, 2018 is scheduled to begin its deliberations this afternoon Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 2pm at Gordon House.

The Committee, chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MJCA), Hon. Delroy Chuck, includes State Ministers Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, Juliet Cuthbert Flynn, Tova Hamilton, Donovan Williams, Duane Smith, Senators Sherene-Golding Campbell, Dana Morris Dixon, Donna Scott-Mottley, Zuleika Jess and Isat Buchanan.

Minister Chuck is urging stakeholders and the wider public to submit written submissions to aid in the Committee’s deliberations on the Act.

“The Committee envisages that members of the public making written submissions may be required to appear before the Committee at short notice to explain and or expound on their submissions,” Minister Chuck stated.

Jamaica’s Child Diversion Act, 2018 provides a progressive framework for diverting young offenders from the formal criminal justice system, providing alternative interventions.

The Programme, which has been operational since March 2020, has been achieving much success with more than 2,000 children diverted from the formal justice system and possible incarceration.

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, through its Child Diversion Programme, has provided a vital pathway of hope and rehabilitation for children with behavioural challenges and those who have come in conflict with the law.

Many participants have been guided back into education, skills training, and constructive community involvement, significantly reducing the likelihood of reoffending and empowering them with a renewed sense of purpose, responsibility, and a genuine second chance at a productive and law-abiding life.

Members of the public can access a copy of the Child Diversion Act, 2018 on the following government websites:

Houses of Parliament- www.japarliament.gov.jm under the heading Publications;

Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs- www.moj.gov.jm and

Jamaica Legal Information Portal- www.jlip.gov.jm.