GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SECOND CHANCES FOR YOUTH WITH THE RECOMMISSIONING OF NEW HORIZON REHABILITATION CENTRE

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, May 21, 2026 (SKNIS): Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Social Development, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, restoration, and second chances for the nation’s youth, following the recommissioning of the New Horizon Rehabilitation Centre (NHRC) in Harris’ Village.

Addressing attendees at the recommissioning ceremony on May 20, 2026, Dr. Hanley emphasised that the reopening of the facility sends a powerful national message about the value placed on young people, particularly those facing challenges and conflict with the law.

“By reopening the centre, we are able to signal to the courts, the police, schools, the communities and families that we do not give up on our nation’s children,” Deputy Prime Minister Hanley said. 

Dr. Hanley noted that reopening the facility is part of a broader effort to strengthen the child justice and rehabilitation system in Saint Kitts and Nevis. He revealed that the government will continue working to rebuild public awareness and confidence in the institution while pursuing legislative reforms aimed at strengthening child protection and support systems.

“The other steps in the process to re-establish the system would include re-introduction of the centre to the general public.”

The deputy prime minister stressed that while the Centre plays an important rehabilitative role, families and communities must also remain actively engaged in supporting children and adolescents.

“While the centre ensures that we do not give up on our nation’s youth, it is not designed to allow for parents and guardians to give up their roles and responsibilities,” Dr. Hanley said. “This village is needed to raise a child in 2026, and beyond, [and this] requires the presence of parents and key stakeholders.”

Dr. Hanley further announced that the ministry will introduce legislative changes focused on improving coordination across sectors, strengthening systems for children in conflict with the law, and enhancing community-based support structures for children and families.

He underscored that institutional care should remain a last resort, with prevention, intervention, and treatment opportunities continuing to receive priority attention.

Speaking under the ceremony’s theme, “Renewal, Restoration and Recommitment,” Dr. Hanley called on stakeholders and citizens alike to recommit themselves to protecting and supporting the nation’s children.

The recommissioning of the New Horizon Rehabilitation Centre forms part of the government’s broader commitment to strengthening rehabilitation services, supporting vulnerable youth, and ensuring that every child is given the opportunity for growth, guidance, and a second chance.

-30-

The post GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SECOND CHANCES FOR YOUTH WITH THE RECOMMISSIONING OF NEW HORIZON REHABILITATION CENTRE appeared first on SKNIS.