Calls to curb youth violence

Schools, churches and sports groups are being told to step up and do their bit to stop youth violence.

The Principal Youth Court Judge has spoken out about the drastic increase in violent crimes committed by youths.

Maori Party co-leader Dr Pita Sharples said the current policy is to get social workers in to do a repair job on the kids.

However, he said the solution is to get families to take responsibility, adding it is a job for everyone, so schools, churches and all those community groups need to stress a no-violence policy.

Dr Sharples said lack of action now will cost us dearly in the future.

- NEWSTALK ZB