The President of the Republic, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan was officially presented with the proposed draft Sexual Offences Bill and the report on enhancing Child Protection in Seychelles. This took place, during a courtesy call by the Chairperson of the Child Law Reform Committee (CLRC), Dr Mathilda Twomey accompanied by other committee members at State House this morning.
To note, the CLRC comprises of representatives from different institutions and departments that work directly with children was established on 01st June 2020, to urgently prioritise the review of Seychelles’ response to child and sexual abuse cases.
President Ramkalawan commended the Committee for their hard work and dedication in making sure that they submit the report and for the proposed model law.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Seychelles, I would like to thank you all for your commitment in fulfilling the task given to you. Rest assured of my full support. In order to compliment the work you are doing we need to also integrate ways to educate, raise awareness and empower our children on how they can better protect themselves. Greater emphasis on resilience needs to be done,” said the President.
During the meeting, the Chairperson and members briefed the Head of State on the report and different recommendations made as well as on the different legal clauses being proposed under the Sexual Offences Bill. They reciprocate the importance to effectively disseminate relevant information, reinforcing the role of the media and launching informative campaigns in respect to child education, sexual and child abuse.
The CLRC’s final report and Sexual Offences Bill will be put before the Cabinet of Ministers for approval before going to the National Assembly.
Other members present this morning at State House were the Attorney-General Mr Frank Ally, Principal Secretary Social Affairs Department, Mrs Linda William-Melanie, representing the National Commission for Protection as well as the Health Department; Dr Erna Athanasius and Ms Catriona Monthy.