OPM hits sexual harrassment of woman

The posts chronicle Karian Forde being sexually harassed by three men on Independence Square, Port-of-Spain.

In a statement yesterday, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister(Gender and Child Affairs) Ayana Webster-Roy took the opportunity to remind the public that “every woman and girl” should be allowed to walk the streets freely without the fear of being abused by others.

“No part of our culture and laws adheres to women being abused,” the statement said, as it outlined the laws which cover such acts and the penalties for persons found guilty of committing same.

The statement quoted Section 30A of the Offences Against the Person Act; Section 15 of the Sexual Offences Act and Chapter 22:03 of the Equal Opportunity Act.

“The Office of the Prime Minister (Gender and Child Affairs) encourages the public to recognise that women and girls should be treated with dignity and respect. ” the statement advised.