a. Social and religious assistance
341.The social worker: The social worker is placed under the authority of the judge
for the sentences enforcement. She operates in coordination with social services
without compromising the safety, discipline and proper functioning of the judicial
proceedings. She ensures the restoration of family links and the resolution of social
problems that can affect the minor or his family.
342.Religious assistant: According to the agreement signed between the Ministry of
Justice and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, minors receive courses on education and
religious orientation.
343.In terms of information: It is permissible for minors to read newspapers or
periodicals and listen to radio and television programmes from 5.30 pm until the
lights are switched off, and under the supervision of the Director. A library is set up in
each centre and made available to minors.
344.In the area of culture, education and sport: In each specialised rehabilitation
centre for minors, cultural activities, education and sports are organised.
345.Educational action: The minor aged 16, may, upon request, be permitted to
perform work as a means for his rehabilitation, promotion and reintegration, and by
decision of the principal after consulting the doctor and authorisation of the board of
rehabilitation.
346.Therefore, he is entitled to one day off per week and during public holidays. The
duration of work may not exceed that of a free worker.
c) Provisions for children in emergency situations included in Ordinance No. 7203 of 10 February 1972 on the Protection of Children and Adolescents
347.Alongside the 347 minors who have violated the law by their criminal actions,
and who are supported by the code of the organization of prisons and the
rehabilitation of prisoners, there is another category of children and adolescents for
whom urgent educational measures need to be taken for prevention. These are taken
by Ordinance No. 72-03 of 10 February 1972 on the protection of childhood and
adolescence, which aims to protect and assist minors whose safety, morals or
education are endangered or whose living conditions or behaviour are likely to affect
their future.
348.This text gives to the juvenile court a broader power for everything related to the
non-adapted child. The intervention of this specialist magistrate enables to exercise on
childhood and adolescence, in danger, a salutary action capable of preventing juvenile
delinquency.
349.The matter is referred to the judge by the parents or guardian of the minor, the
prosecutor, the probation officers or the President of the Municipal Assembly (art. 2).
The minor himself can directly approach the juvenile court when he/she feels
threatened. In addition, the juvenile judge has the opportunity to refer the matter to
himself. This prerogative based on the law, ensures freedom of action in order to
detect and protect the minor in danger. His decision-making power is very broad since
he can order the referral of the minor:
a. To his father or his mother who has not the right to custody, however without them
being deprived of this right;
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