From:TheBahamasWeekly.com
Ministry of Social Services - Press Statement on the shooting of the family of three in Rupert Dean's Lane
By Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development
Aug 30, 2017 - 4:08:38 PM
The Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development extends condolences to the family that was affected by the shooting incident at 3:00 am on Monday, 28th, August 2017.
The Ministry is concerned about the family of three where a father, mother and eight month old male infant were shot. Regrettably the infant succumbed to his injuries however, the parents are being treated for their injuries.
This shooting is another example of how even the youngest, most innocent child is not exempt from the violence in our communities. Although the Ministry has overall responsibility for the care and protection of children under the "Child Protection Act" and related laws, this horrific incident underscores the need for the entire nation to partner with us to ensure that our children receive the care and protection that they deserve. The public can rest assured that the circumstances of this situation are being thoroughly assessed by through the Department of Social Services' Child Protection Unit, while our Police partners investigate the crime.
The Department has begun the process to assist the immediate family to ensure that their basic needs are met through counseling and emotional support. The Department also provides intervention and assistance to families experiencing domestic violence and other personal crises; through its Domestic Violence and Counseling Unit, which is located upstairs of the Galleria Cinema, in the RND Plaza.
Although the Department of Social Services traditionally sets aside the month of April to focus the nation's attention on matters related to child protection, we have begun a new initiative to assertively coordinate our efforts with our civil and social partners to eradicate the abuse and neglect of children year round.
We take this opportunity to appeal to the public to report any cases where they suspect that a child is being, or appears to be abused, neglected or abandoned. Please be assured that those who report can remain anonymous. They do not need proof of these matters, since it is the job of the Police and the Department of Social Services to prove cases. The National Hotline is a 24-hour service operated by the Ministry to address matters of abuse for children and adults.
The National Hotline: 322-2763 or 422-2763
The Domestic Violence Unit: 323-0171
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