THE status of students who were reported to be cutting themselves was among several issues presented during a briefing yesterday conducted by Governor’s Chief of Staff Frank Arriola.

Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Director Wilfred Aflague said a group of his counselors were involved with the recent incident that involved about 30 students.

“After interviews with students and parents, it was narrowed down to about five or six who may need mental health services, so we’re in contact with those parents,” Aflague said, adding they will continue working with the Guam Department of Education.

Meanwhile, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities Director Ben Servino reported his agency will undertake site assessments at all government of Guam entities as well as the private sector to ensure they all have accessible parking and that their buildings are ADA-compliant.

Arriola also reported that a memorandum of agreement is in the works between the Department of Parks and Recreation and Holiday Resort and Spa on the revitalization of Matapang Beach Park.

Arriola said they are going to put a plan together to refurbish the park structures, the sinking parking lot, and the deteriorating restroom facilities. The agreement is expected to be finalized next month by both parties as well as the Department of Land Management.

In addition, another memorandum of agreement between two agencies was presented. Arriola said the Department of Chamorro Affairs will be turning over branch libraries in Barrigada, Dededo, Yoña, Merizo and Agat over to their respective village mayors.

Other

Arriola also noted the libraries will resume their regular hours of operation. Previously, there was a delay because of an extensive review by the Attorney General’s Office on the MOA.

Other highlights of yesterday’s briefing include the following:

• Guam International Airport Authority launches Civilian Volunteer Airport Police Reserve Program. Following P.L. 30-130, the GIAA developed a program for civilian volunteers to assist manpower shortages in crime suppression, upholding the law, and assisting in emergencies. CVAPRP will receive training in crime prevention, and operational techniques for natural and man-made emergencies entirely on a voluntary basis. Recruitment began on May 2 and the training program will take place between May 20 to 28.
• Department of Agriculture has modified the prohibition of betel nut imports from the CNMI allowing unhusked betel nuts for consumption. Formerly, only cleaned, husked kernels were admissible. Prohibition remains on betel nut palm tree seedlings. Betel nuts can now be imported for consumption, but not planting, in commercial quantities of more than 50 pounds with an import permit. Quantities 50 pounds and under don’t need an import permit for an individual for their personal consumption, not for resale. Any betel nut presented for import must be thoroughly cleaned and free of any pests.
• The Department of Youth Affairs’ After School Care program at their Haya Resource Center in Agat has been helping working parents who are financially challenged with supervised care, academic tutoring and mentoring for eligible children. They have assisted 30 children with academic tutoring with the help of Sanctuary AmeriCorps Volunteers, GCC personnel, and DYA staff.