Treat crime and violence as a public health emergency, says Longmore

 

Amid renewed public concern about violence against women and girls, psychiatrist and Government Senator Dr. Saphire Longmore, wants a public health approach to tackling crime and violence. 

 

Speaking Tuesday on the Morning Agenda on Power 106, Dr. Longmore said Jamaica's legislation is deficient with respect to the consideration of healthcare, parameters for health and holistic health. 

 

She pointed out that many victims of domestic violence suffer from the effects of trauma, which also manifest as other health-related conditions.

 

"Now, when you look at government and the purpose of government really, it is to see to a healthy population. That is a reflection of a successful society. A society that is unhealthy is a society that needs intervention and a lot of our legislations do not consider or give the gravity to the parameters of health. And what you just mentioned is what we have been advocating for, but it is also being shown. Crime and violence is especially a public health emergency and it should be treated accordingly," she suggested. 

 

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has directed relevant ministers to expedite legislative amendments to bolster Jamaica's framework for addressing violence against women and girls. 

 

The Prime Minister issued the directive during Monday's Cabinet meeting after receiving a report from the National Security Minister on recent incidents of violence against this vulnerable group.