CARETAKER Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo reminds some 2000 women gathered in Munda of the important role women play in families, communities and the nation.
Speaking during the opening of a weeklong Seventh Day Adventist Women’s Congress in Munda, Western Province on Monday this week, Mr Lilo said women play vital roles in families and nation building.
He highlighted the issue that often affects women ‘Domestic Violence’ saying the government has passed a law to protect women and children.
Thus, he explained that the Family Protection Act 2014 which was passed by Parliament in its last sitting takes a clear stand against domestic violence.
“The Family Protection Act 2014 is a national response to the alarming rates of domestic violence in this country.”
Mr Lilo said the Act sets out mechanisms to protect victims of domestic violence whether they are men, women, children, or persons with disabilities.
He said the law also sets out programs which will provide support for perpetrators through awareness, training and counselling.
“It is clear in law that domestic violence is wrong. The law also recognises that those who suffer domestic violence must be protected and helped to continue to live better lives,” Mr Lilo said.
The caretaker Prime Minister also highlighted that the Family Protection Act 2014 also sets out that where there are instances of domestic violence; victims can seek safety notices or protection orders from the Police or the Courts.
“Where the harm is more serious, the perpetrator can be charged for the offence of domestic violence,” Mr Lilo said.
He encouraged the women to use the congress to voice out their concerns and to share with each other on the issues affecting them in the country.
“This is an opportunity to also gauge the voice of women in the church in seeking practical measures to address issues affecting women in the country,” he said.
The more than 2000 women that are currently attending the congress have expressed their gratitude to the Prime Minister for gracing their occasion with his presence.
