Informative, educational and interesting. These words aptly describe a seminar on Forensic Psychiatry and the role of Mental Health in the Criminal Justice system which was organized by the International American University College Medicine (IAUCOM) in association with the University of Kentucky (department of Psychiatry), on September 7, 12 at the college campus in Vieux-Fort.
The seminar was addressed by Dr. Timothy Allen, Director of Forensic Psychiatry, St. Claire Counseling and the University of Kentucky. Dr. Allen is also a part-time associate professor at the UK Department of Psychiatry and a member of several committees, and is involved in various scholarly researches.
In addressing the large and appreciative gathering which showed profound interest in the event, Dr. Allen, an extremely revered scholar in his area of study, drew reference to persons charged with murder in countries such as America and England and being freed, which subsequently led to some laws in these countries being changed.
After the speaker’s address there was an open forum which gave participants an opportunity to ask any question on the topic and seek clarification on matters they did not fully understand. Former Co-ordinator of the Health Reform Programme in St. Lucia Jeniffer Joseph, described the seminar as educational, adding that more of such seminar is needed in St. Lucia.