Female parliamentarians denounce domestic violence

The women in Parliament yesterday came together to denounce domestic violence, through a statement read by House Speaker Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert.

"As members of the highest legislative body in the land, we have always committed to ensure that the rights of every individual in Jamaica are protected. We also continue to conduct the business of our country respectful of the laws that govern us. As such, we seek to guarantee life, well-being and happiness of every individual. In this vein, violence, in particular gender-based violence, must at all times be denounced as a threat to life, well-being and happiness of our people," Dalrymple-Philibert said.

The statement preceded her announcement that Westmoreland Central Member of Parliament (MP), George Wright, is proceeding on leave of absence from Parliament. Wright was the subject of a police investigation into allegations of physical abuse against a woman in Hanover. The investigation was closed because neither the woman, who made a report against Wright, nor the MP were willing to participate in the investigation. Wright has been removed by the Jamaica Labour Party from its parliamentary caucus.