We Have to Take Some Tough Decisions to Protect Our Children, Says PM

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has given a clear warning that the administration would get tougher on persons who are responsible for abusing and causing hurt to the nation's children, whether through neglect or deliberate action.

Speaking at the launch this morning of a national road safety poster competition at Jamaica House, the Prime Minister declared: "We have to do some things and I don't want to hear anyone cry about any decision taken by the government to protect the children of Jamaica."

Noting that all Jamaica must be feeling a sense of shame with regards to what is happening in terms of the abuse of children, the Prime Minister said "The children have a special place in my heart; they are too precious and must be protected."

Mrs Simpson Miller said she has already had discussions with the Minister of Justice with a view to reviewing the relevant laws, and along with the Children's Advocate will be implementing a series of measures to help change the culture of ignoring acts of abuse against children. "We are not going to allow anyone, and we will be holding parents and guardians responsible, as well as the offenders, who must never escape serious punishment, for hurting a child, " the Prime Minister said.