Minister for Labour and Gender Relations, Virginia Albert-Poyotte, has called for stronger support systems for women at risk, following the recent murders of Alana Bernard, a mother of three, and 20-year-old Jolie William.
While addressing growing concerns about gender-based violence, the minister also acknowledged the need for broader action to tackle and speak out against violence in all forms, regardless of gender.
Acknowledging that investigations into the deaths of Bernard and William are ongoing, Albert-Poyotte stressed that the priority should not only be on understanding how these tragedies occurred but also ensuring that women in similar situations know how to seek help before it is too late.
“Who knew what the situation was and how we could assist—that was unknown to the public…. Therefore, the argument remains. We need to educate both men and women as to what can I do if I am feeling threatened by anybody for whatever reason,” she said.
The minister referenced reports that the victims may have been aware of threats against them but were unsure where to turn for help.
“It is alleged that there were some threats, and the victims were aware of the threats, but what apparently happened is that they did not know where to turn. They were not aware of who could have been of support to them, and in the absence of that information, they must have kept it to themselves and thought it would be all safe.”
Albert-Poyotte said the government and relevant agencies must be more proactive in educating the public about available support and resources.
“The Gender Department and other agencies need to go out there and be a little more vocal to tell women what they have to do in certain situations so that they can protect themselves,” she said.
Albert-Poyotte also recognised the need for a consistent response to all forms of violence, regardless of the victim’s gender.
“If I am promoting gender equality, the question will be asked, ‘Why are you making a statement when a woman is murdered and you have not made a statement when a man is murdered?’ So, we have to make statements on all issues, whether it’s a man and whether it’s a woman,” she said.
However, the minister stressed that gender-based violence against women remains a pressing issue requiring targeted attention.
“Women are murdered because they are women. They are targeted because they are women. This is another area that we have to focus on,” she said. “You must not kill somebody; you must not destroy somebody’s life because of who they are.”
Albert-Poyotte insisted that statements alone are insufficient. She said concrete action is needed to protect all individuals from violence.
“My position is that we need to take action. It’s not just making a statement, but it is to take action. And the action is that we need to ensure that we put mechanisms in place to protect all men and women in Saint Lucia,” she said.
Before I make my comment – let me first state that I am neither UWP nor SLP. I am not certain if the folk in St. Lucia understand the magnitude of what is happening on island–it is alarming and devastating to say the least.
Stalking is a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress. This can also lead to harming or killing as you all have realized in several instances in your small 238 square miles during the past few days.
1. Individuals very often confuse lust and control for love…wake up and get a grip – love yourself
2. Stay away from those who exhibit issues of control, insecurity and anger
3. Question – in your 238 square miles it is impossible to have witness protection – unless that individual is locked away in a house and never comes out.
4. In order to protect an individual they would literally have to leave St. Lucia period – full stop
5. If they remain in St. Lucia there will also be a traitor/betrayer to list their location whether it be for $$$ or whatever…cameras rolling 24/7 —
6. Your laws are TOO lenient and thus far have been ineffective in problem solving
7. You all LUCIANS need to stop acting like you don’t know what each of you are capable of – let’s be serious…the truth will set you free…
There is also the issue of our students and children. They too need to be educated and informed of what to do and who to engage if there is emotional or physical abuse. Let us not let the indecisiveness of our children, teenagers and adults fester into physical violence or murder whether it is for self defence or premeditated. De-escalation should be at the forefront of any engagement. The society at all levels must understand that force must be a last resort.