THE Opposition Spokesperson for Woman, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Hon. Sam Iduri commends Safenet and other like charitable organisations for providing shelter and needed services to victims of sexual violence; and calls on the responsible ministry to address any problems they currently facing if necessary.
The statement was issued after reports that Safenet, a charitable organisation providing accommodation and much medical services to victims of domestic and sexual violence through Seif Ples Gender Based Violence at Rove, will temporarily close its doors. No reason was given for the short closure.
“I hope this is truly temporary and that the Safenet crisis centre will be able to reopen its doors soon.
“The work and services provided by such organisations are pivotal in safeguarding the welfare and interest of our women and children.
Sexual abuse resulting from domestic, alcohol abuse or misconceived cultural practices is a problem that is silently chipping away at the very fabrics of our existence as family units, communities and as a Christian country,” says the Shadow Minister for Women, Youths, Children and Family Affairs.
He said the associated psychological trauma and hardships that sexual abuse and related offences unduly force upon our women folk and youths, is not only criminal but can result in dire consequences in the long term which can also unwittingly undermine efforts to building a future peaceful and prosperous Solomon Islands for everyone.
“It is therefore imperative that the Government continues to support organisations like Safenet with genuine mandates to address the problems associated with gender and sexual abuse,” added Hon. Iduri.
