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EmmaRiddle · 03-28-2008, 11:35 AM

A Czech lawmaker has criticised J.K.Rowling for her comments in regards to the childrens' and psychiatric institutions in Eastern Europe which she accused of being inhumane.

Quote:

"Since you opened your mouth, the work of our employees has been the subject of unjustified criticism," said Miloslav Macela in a letter sent to the Harry Potter author.

Jo condemned the use of caged beds as 'barbaric' in 2004 in The Sunday Times. Beds with cages and nets were subsequently banned in Czech from the start of 2007. However there have been allegations that some institutions are still using them. Others have defended the barriers, saying they 'prevent patients falling out and hurting themselves'.

More can be read on the history of this matter at the links below;

Caged Beds Go After Plea From JKR
Rowling to rescue of abused children
Rowling's protest angers President
Czech President responds to JKR
J.K.Rowling thanks readers of The Sunday Mirror
JKR writes about her experiences in Romania
JKR thanks The Sun for support & highlights issues
JKR Talks Romania and Writing
More reports from J.K.Rowling's trip to Romania

scarlet woman · 03-31-2008, 05:36 PM

the fact is that Jo is right - caged beds are barbaric! These poor children were left in these beds practically all of the time with little or no stimulation, as there is little investment in those kinds of institutions. It's just a way of imprisoning children with mental health difficulties by people without the training or experience to deal with them properly.