These matters are not for silence or delay, as protecting children defines who we are and when a child suffers, an entire family shares the pain, said Laville.
Dominica: Minister of Health, Cassani Laville, has warned all child abusers that they will be pursued by the authorities, stating that there is nowhere for them to hide. The warning comes after news of a 12-year-old girl being (allegedly) harassed has circulated online.
The Minister of Health, Wellness and Social Services, Cassani Laville, has issued a response, affirming the Government’s solid stance against child abuse in the country.
The Minister’s response follows the release of an open letter that has been circulating on different social media platforms in Dominica, highlighting claims of child abuse against a 12-year-old girl.
In his address, Minister Laville has described the allegations as disturbing, stating that protecting children is a matter of national responsibility, as child abuse not only affects the child but the entire family and the society as a whole.
These are matters not for silence or dismissal or delay. They go to the very heart of who we are as people and how we protect the most vulnerable among us. And I speak today not just as a Minister but as a father, a son and someone who understands that when a child hurts, an entire family carries the pain. There is nothing heavier than the suffering of a child, stated Minister Laville.
He has issued a warning to all perpetrators, declaring that there is zero tolerance for child abusers in Dominica, describing their actions as cowardly.
But let me also be very clear. Those who harm children, those who exploit, intimidate, or prey on innocent children must understand this; there's no place for you to hide in our society. Your actions are not just wrong. They are cowardly, shameful, and unacceptable, declared the Health Minister.
Laville went on to encourage the families facing trauma to seek help from the Department of Social Services, assuring them that trained professionals are available to serve them with confidentiality.
I strongly encourage any family facing distress or trauma or uncertainty to reach out to the Department of Social Services. You can contact them at 2663080. We have trained professionals ready to listen, to guide, and to help you navigate this difficult time with care and absolute confidentiality, he encouraged.
Minister Laville has also offered to assist anyone in need, urging them to reach out to his office for guidance. The Minister of Health has called all Dominicans to stand united against child abuse.