G-G Commends Public Agencies Fighting Against Child Abuse

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, has praised Government agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) involved in the fight against child abuse.

Addressing the Governor-General’s Achievement Award for Excellence ceremony, at the Sixth Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, in Montego Bay, on June 16, he said these institutions have, “without hesitation,” heeded the call to join the fight, as part of a “rescue mission.”

“I am deeply grateful and encouraged by the work being done by the various State agencies, such as the Office of the Children’s Registry (OCR), the Child Development Agency (CDA), the Children’s Advocate, and the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA),” he added.

The Governor-General noted that they have stepped up their defence of children’s rights and are strengthening their actions “to protect our children and curtail the impunity of the perpetrators.”

He also welcomed the “growing number” of non-governmental bodies, including the Church, religious groups, and social and service clubs, “which have (also) heeded the call for Jamaicans to unite in the protection of our children.”

Six members of the Jamaican Diaspora were presented with the Governor- General’s Achievement Award for Excellence for 2015, for outstanding accomplishments and service. The ceremony formed part of the activities marking Diaspora Day.

The awardees are: Michelle Brumley and Kingsley Gilliam – Canada; Lisa Soares and Claudette Powell – United States of America (USA); and Nathaniel Peat and Gloria Leslie – United Kingdom (UK).

They were recognized for achievements attained through community and social service, and volunteerism.

The six-day conference is being held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre until June 18, under the theme: ‘Jamaica and the Diaspora: Linking for Growth and Prosperity’.