The Interim Commissioner for Children and Young People Isabelle Crompton today welcomed the tabling of the Custodial Inspector’s Security contractor transport of young people in custody: safeguarding review 2025.
“I call for the full and prompt implementation of the Custodial Inspector’s recommendations,” Ms Crompton said.
“Let us be under no illusions – an improvised spit hood is still a spit hood.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, there are no circumstances that make the use of any spit hood on a child acceptable.”
“They are dehumanising, harmful, potentially dangerous, and entirely incompatible with child rights.”
Ms Crompton said the Tasmanian Government must meet the standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
“The Convention makes clear that ‘every child deprived of liberty shall be treated with humanity and respect for the inherent dignity of the human person’.
“This standard applies to any setting where a child is in custody, including when being transported.”
Ms Crompton said young people at Ashley Youth Detention Centre have told her and her Office they experience transport during really stressful times.
“Transport occurs when they are going to detention for the first time, going to court or going to hospital.”
“Regardless of who provides transport services, the Government must meet its obligations to the children in its care by ensuring the consistent provision of safe, trauma-informed, and developmentally appropriate practices.”
“I expect all parties to work together, swiftly, to prohibit the dehumanising use of any spit hood in any setting.”
Media Contact:
Mark Thomas, M&M Communications
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