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Shannique Bowden, Executive Director, Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network
The Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network says there is an urgent need to correct some of the limitations on the country's child protection framework.
As an example, Executive Director of JYAN Shannique Bowden cited the fact that the alleged perpetrator in the murder of young Kelsey Ferrigon was out on bail for an offence against another child.
Against that background, she said on Monday that, policy makers must ensure that "even at the level of accusation, children are protected from possible harm."
Changes must be made "to ensure that an accused, who is on bail for offences against children cannot find themselves in a position to inflict harm on another child," she said.
She's calling for greater reinforcement of early warning systems and social safety nets, expanding access to child-friendly reporting channels and providing increased support to at-risk families and caregivers.
Additionally she wants strict prohibitive laws that prevent engagement of those accused or convicted of child abuse from being around children.
Nine year-old Kelsey Ferrigon was found murdered at her home in Job Lane, St Catherine on Friday.
The suspect in the murder, Giovanni Ellis, was killed on Monday during a police operation in Clarendon.
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