King’s House has confirmed that the new Children’s Advocate will be Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Diahann Gordon Harrison, who will take office on January 9.
In a release Tuesday (December 20), King’s House said that the Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, has appointed Mrs. Gordon Harrison to the post. She will replace Mary Clarke, who retired in August, after serving in the position since 2006.
Mrs. Gordon Harrison, an attorney for the past 11 years, worked for eight years in the Office of the DPP, and has significant experience prosecuting major offences in several Courts in Jamaica. She will receive her Instrument of Appointment at King’s House on Thursday (December 22).
The Office of Children’s Advocate is a Commission of Parliament established by the Child Care and Protection Act, 2004. The Children’s Advocate is required, among other duties, to keep under review, the adequacy and effectiveness of law and practices relating to the rights and best interests of children, as well as the services provided for children. The Children’s Advocate also advises and makes recommendations to Parliament, Ministers of Government and the relevant authorities on matters concerning the rights or best interests of children.
The Governor-General expressed appreciation and gratitude to the former Children’s Advocate for her service, care and compassion for children during her tenure. He also commended Eileen Crosbie Salmon, who had been acting in the post of Children’s Advocate since April of this year.