The findings of a UNICEF study on Child Abuse in Dominica are expected to be revealed at a consultation this morning.
Chief Welfare Officer Martin Anthony says a high percentage of children in Dominica are being sexually abused.
He says in the first quarter of the year, the records were very high.
“We know that many children have been abused sexually, physically and otherwise and it is a concern which needs to be addressed otherwise. We must harness all our resources in other to more effectively deal with that concern. We are seeing a high percentage of children being abused and for the first three months of this year we are seeing a high level of reported cases. We are thankful to UNICEF who has commissioned the study,” he said.
He said it is hoped that a national plan of action to be developed following the consultation
“That plan will help guide as to the various actions that should be taken to address this issue,” he said.
The event is carded for 9am at the Holy Redeemer Retreat House.
Thank God or those who recognize the problem of sexual child abuse (SCA) and are moving against it.
Any lasting victories in this war must include a recognition of this one basic fact:
SCA does not happen in a vacuum. It is develops and grows in a society that is materialistic in its values and has
an increasing disregard of God’s moral code. The presence and availability of pornography contributes along with an increased acceptance of homosexuality as a viable alternative lifestyle. It is fostered by a lessened appreciation for the sacredness of marriage, and an increased acceptance of sex before – and outside of – marriage.
We have children growing up in homes where God’s blueprint for a happy family is disregarded: single mothers resenting the fact that they must struggle to raise children without the support of a husband; children hurting for lack of a “father figure”; fathers (if they are present) who resent the responsibility they didn’t want and are sometimes seeing another woman (or man): the presence of alcohol; teenagers without the normal loving restrain of caring parents, and the positive influence of church life. It is in this kind of atmosphere that SCA is most apt to appear.
A focus on SCA is necessary. But lasting results will depend on our wiliness to honor God and return to His moral code as it is found in the New Testament and is taught by he church. The answer is to have suitable laws and see that they are enforced and at he same time get God and the influence of His Word inmto troubled homes.
Continued…
The last sentence should read in two sentences:
The answer is to have suitable laws and see that they are enforced. At the same time get God and the influence of His Word into troubled homes.
Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.