JAMAICA
Jamaica Observer
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — Persons who may be aware of instances of child abuse, but do not inform the authorities, could be brought before the courts and face possible jail according to a looming law.
Child Care Board Director, Joan Crawford, says Cabinet is about to consider a proposal making it mandatory for school principals, church leaders, social workers, court officials, and media workers, among others to report knowledge of child abuse.
“There are no ifs or buts. It will be that you … are bound to report,” she said Thursday. “The only exception there is that lawyer-client privilege, but all others are not considered that way.”
Further explaining the proposal before the Cabinet she said, “Failure to report a suspected case should carry a sanction in the form of a fine, with the alternative of imprisonment”.
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