Paul Bickford
Northern News Services
Published Monday, August 11, 2008

HAY RIVER - Hay River is mulling over the idea of a curfew for young people.

Some parents support a curfew, while other people are raising concerns. Both sides of the issue had their say at a July 31 public meeting attended by about 35 people, including town councillors. Notably absent were any young people, who would be the most affected.

One parent, Jill Taylor, said a curfew would help parents get children home at night.

While recognizing parents are responsible for their children, Taylor said the community can still offer support.

"I'm sick of hearing it's all on me," she said. "I need help."

There is already a curfew bylaw on the books in Hay River. However, the curfew, passed in 1951 and amended in 1962, is not enforced.

"It's an old bylaw ... old fines," said Coun. Vince McKay.

While noting not all vandalism is caused by 16- or 17-year-olds, McKay said a curfew would be another tool to crack down on the kids causing problems.

According to a draft of the proposed bylaw, those aged 17 and under would not be permitted in public places during the curfew, except when with by a parent or guardian, working, returning from a sporting event or other exceptions. The overnight curfew would begin at 10 p.m. for children under 12, 11 p.m. for ages 12 to 15, and midnight for 16- and 17-year olds.

Violators and their parents or guardians would first receive written warnings. After three warnings in a six-month period, fines of $50 to $500 would be imposed.