Wednesday, April 12, 2006Law and Order Commission actively pursuing mandate
-- Teixeira
HOME Affairs Minister Ms Gail Teixeira says the National Commission on Law and Order (NCLO) established on November 25, 2005, has been actively pursuing its mandate to provide the government with recommendations regarding crime and violence, through a multi-stakeholder approach.
The Government Information Agency (GINA) said she indicated Monday that the commission, which comprises members from religious bodies, non-governmental organisations, ministries, and political parties, including the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic and the main opposition People’s National Congress Reform, has been meeting regularly since its establishment.
“The commission has been meeting since December 2005, and convenes on a monthly basis at the Ministry of Home Affairs. We have established several sub-groups with specific mandates and areas of focus,” she told reporters.
These sub-groups examine issues as domestic violence, organised crime, the narco trade and road safety, and are made up of members drawn from the various organisations which comprise the commission. Their activities are discussed and examined at the monthly meetings, the minister reported.
The commission, due to meet today, is also tasked with the responsibility of examining the status of the National Drug Strategy Master Plan, launched on June 21, 2005, and make recommendations where necessary.
GINA noted that external expertise can be utilised by the commission to propose scientific innovations to assist in reducing crime.
The Home Affairs Minister said annual reports which can be tabled in the National Assembly for evaluation, and implementation, will be made to the government.
Acknowledging the increase in violent crime since 2002, Teixeira said that bodies such as the NCLO are tailored to address this issue, and as such, efforts are ongoing to strengthen and boost the capacity of these entities.
The minister Monday briefed the media on the establishment of a Citizens’ Security Project, which aims to employ a multi-dimensional approach to crime fighting.
She said efforts will continue to ensure adequate financial and technical assistance is provided to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies, and boost the criminal justice system, GINA reported.
Copyright GNNL April 2006
