National Security and Legal Affairs Minister Rayburn Blackmore says Dominica has strengthened its legal framework for responding to domestic matters and abuse through a comprehensive package of family legislation.
Speaking on the issue, Blackmore noted that a ministerial subcommittee was established to advance the reforms, which were passed in Parliament on April 25, 2023. The five laws address the care and protection of children, the legal status of children, domestic violence, child maintenance, and financial support for spouses, parents and grandparents who may be unable to care for themselves.
According to Minister Blackmore, the legislation is intended to provide stronger safeguards for women, children, older persons and families, while allowing authorities to respond more effectively to cases of abuse and family disputes.
The measures include provisions for foster care and adoption based on the best interests of the child, equal legal status for children regardless of their parents’ marital status, faster protection orders and expanded police powers in domestic violence cases, as well as updated mechanisms for enforcing child and spousal maintenance. He said the new framework has also established a director of services and improved avenues for victims to access social assistance and other support.
Blackmore further explained that reports of child abuse made to the police or Social Services Department are investigated, with arrangements made for affected minors to be placed in appropriate foster care and provided with counselling where necessary.
He is urging citizens to take greater responsibility for protecting children and young people within their communities, particularly those within their own families, and to report suspected abuse or misconduct involving minors. The minister also stressed that counselling is available not only to victims, but to other family members affected by abuse, encouraging those in need to make use of the services.
