Domestic Violence Coordinator at Every Police Station

The Government is moving to tackle the problem of domestic violence through the implementation of a Domestic Violence Coordinator programme.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, in his 2016/17 Budget Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on May 24, said a Domestic Violence Coordinator from within the ranks of the police force will be installed at all police stations.

Noting that 37 per cent of murders are domestic in nature, he added that a Consultative Committee is also to be developed to enable early intervention where cases of domestic abuse or disturbances are reported.

The committee is to consist of community leaders, such as Justices of the Peace (JPs), pastors or school principals.

“Once there is a report to the police station of an incident of domestic violence, the Domestic Violence Coordinator will be alerted. In parallel with the formal investigative procedure, he or she will visit those allegedly involved and this will be followed up by members of the Consultative Committee,” Mr. Holness explained.

The committee will engage the parties involved in a process of dialogue and reconciliation.

“In order to tackle crime over the long term, we have to start with the family. This Government will be developing programmes to assist the Jamaican family in fulfilling its role as the first and most important agent of socialisation,” the Prime Minister said.

           In light of this, Mr. Holness noted that budgetary support for the National Parenting Support Commission has been increased.

Additionally, he said steps are being taken to ensure that it becomes mandatory for the father’s name to be included on the birth certificate of children born in the country.

“Fathers need to take their place in the lives of their children,” the Prime Minister emphasized.