As Guyana tries to implement a fully functioning Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Unit, its Canadian counterpart has thrown financial support behind the initiative.
On Monday (March 7) the Unit received a donation from the Canadian Government to aid in the provision of services to victims and persons at risk of such violence.
The department falls under the Ministry of Social Protection’s Water and Cornhill Streets, Georgetown complex.
Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mr. Pierre Giroux presented the Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence with equipment and office furniture worth $20,000 (Canadian) for the Unit.
The High Commissioner said the Unit will have a dedicated space for victims of sexual and domestic violence which could be accessed in a helpful environment. He noted that his government has always been supportive of Guyana.
Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence expressed gratitude, while noting that the donation would enable her Ministry to fast track what she calls a much-needed initiative.
She further noted that a Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Unit will not only aid policy makers in their efforts to combat the scourges, but help to spread awareness about prevention methods.
Care for citizens will also be a part of the Unit’s mandate, said Minister Lawrence.
The Unit will function with eight staff members.
Through a similar partnership last year 40 persons in the hinterland were trained in the provision of basic social services and to identify and report on social issues in their respective communities.
