The groundwork for a Sexual Harassment Policy is being firmly established, with a deadline set for April following extensive consultations with key stakeholders.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Crime Prevention, and Persons With Disabilities is collaborating with the Ministry of National Security to finalize a robust Sexual Harassment Policy and related procedures for redress.
In February, the progress in developing the policy framework involved a series of focused group meetings and a ‘Train the Trainer’ workshop, facilitated by Jeanette Johnstone of Catalyst Plus. This consultative phase, lasting three weeks, is now complete, leading into the next phase of policy formulation in April.
This upcoming phase will engage stakeholders from the Protected Services and the Department of Gender Affairs. This initiative is being bolstered by the Government of Saint Lucia and the Canada Caricom Expert Deployment Mechanism (CCEDM).
Prime Minister Philip J Pierre has declared unwavering support for the implementation of a Sexual Harassment Policy within the St Lucia Police Force, particularly in light of recent allegations of sexual harassment in the unit.
He emphasized, “The government cannot impose a Sexual Harassment Policy upon the police force; the initiative must come from within the police itself.”
The prime minister affirmed that a protocol exists, stating that in cases of sexual assault, individuals must report to the police. He remarked on the seriousness of the issue, recalling instances where high-profile individuals have faced arrest for rape and sexual assault.
“The police act impartially, making cases irrespective of an individual’s status. The process must be followed,” noted Pierre.
He unequivocally stated his position against sexual harassment, reinforcing that no individual, regardless of their societal status, is above accountability.
PM Pierre is committed to advancing a Sexual Harassment Policy within the police force as soon as it is effectively formulated, expressing his strong endorsement for this critical procedure.