We had a very constructive meeting, Bishop Iakob showed a very positive attitude towards the Public Defender’s institute, – Public Defender Nino Lomjaria said after the meeting with Bishop Iakob of Bodbe, the newly appointed Head of Ninotsminda Boarding School, where alleged crimes against children took place over years.
Lomjaria said that several important issues were discussed at the meeting, including the fact that large orphanages are not good for the best interests of children, and that the Public Defender should be able to monitor processes at the Ninotsminda boarding school.
The Public Defender noted that she and Bishop Iakob will arrive at the boarding school together next weekend so that she’ll be able to get acquainted with the situation on the spot, while social workers will continue to assess the needs of the remaining children.
“Consequently, the situation will develop in accordance with the needs of the children, in their best interests,” Lomjaria stated.
Regarding the removal of children from the orphanage, she noted that the social workers will continue to assess the needs of the children and relevant decisions will be made.
Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze also commented on the issue, saying that all parties are interested in protecting the best interests and rights of each child.
“We will continue working with the Patriarchate to transfer the children to appropriate conditions, which means small groups homes, for which a number of meetings have been held,” said Tikaradze.
An investigation is underway on possible crimes committed against children at St. Nino Boarding School under article 126, part I1, envisaged by the Criminal Code of Georgia.
By Ana Dumbadze
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