Rowley: I listen to women

He made the comment in response to a series of questions from Opposition MPs during Prime Minister’s Question Period in the House of Representatives yesterday.

Asked by Couva North MP Ramona Ramdial whether he would meet with women’s groups to explain statements he made on violence against women, last week at the ‘Conversations with the Prime Minister’ in Maloney, Rowley assured, “Before becoming Prime Minister and as Prime Minister I have had many conversations with women. I have been in consultation with women’s groups.” Rowley said there are seven safe houses and shelters, “at various stages of construction and completion” to prevent and protect men, women and children from domestic and sexual abuse and violence. He indicated two of these facilities are new and five are residential homes which are being refurbished.

He disclosed that the Office of the Prime Minister is collaborating with the National Security Ministry on a facility for female young offenders adding that dormitories at the Youth Training Centre (YTC) are being refurbished to international standards to treat with male young offenders.

The Prime Minister said there is existing legislation to treat with instances of domestic violence against women and said legislation will be reviewed, if necessary.

He identified the Citizens Security Programme, Cadets and Police Youth Clubs as “specific programmes outside many other initiatives” in the Education, Sports and Social Development Ministries, which deal with socialisation of men and women on issues of violence.

Rowley said human behaviour and discipline are at the core of the education system, in terms of teaching the youth to respect one another and make positive contributions to society.

Rowley’s explanations did not satisfy Princes Town MP Barry Padarath who demanded the PM apologise for his statements in Maloney.

Leader of Government Business Camille Robinson-Regis said Padarath’s outburst reflected “gross disrespect”. In advising Padarath that he breached the House’s Standing Orders, Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George directed him to withdraw his question and apologise.

As Padarath prepared to stand up, Annisette-George warned, “if you are rising, it is only to apologise and take your seat.” Padarath told Annisette-George, “I withdraw (the question) but I find it very difficult to apologise.” Some Opposition MPs thumped their desks in support of him.

When Annisette-George reiterated her instruction, Padarath replied, “I withdraw.” Some Government MPs added, “and apologise”, which Padarath refused to do.