Boys and girls in shelters to be separated
Social Development and Human Security Minister Pavena Hongsakul yesterday ordered that all boys aged between 12 and 17 be moved to separate quarters at state-funded shelters for children and families in 77 provinces following the alleged rape of a four-ye
After a meeting with ministry officials yesterday, Pavena said officials would be dispatched to check all the homes before they set a criteria on dividing the dwellers for safety.
Youngsters living in the homes will be divided into three groups: kids of up to 11 years will be left with their mothers; boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 17 will be separated; and those above 18 will also be given separate accommodation, she said. The shelters will be provided with 24-hour security and every home will be equipped with security cameras. There will be female guards for shelters with young girls. Meanwhile, a panel led by a Social Development and Human Security Ministry inspector-general would assess each shelter every two months and run a major check once a year. The plan to overhaul and improve the shelters, as well as install security cameras will cost about Bt2.2 billion in all, Pavena said.
