Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, the Hon. Kirk Humphrey, has spoken out strongly against the violent attack on an elderly man along Belmont Road, St Michael, which occurred on Thursday.
The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, drew widespread condemnation from members of the public.
In a statement issued in the aftermath, Minister Humphrey expressed his horror at the assault and reiterated his Ministry’s commitment to protecting the elderly. He also announced plans to bring new legislation before Parliament to specifically address elder abuse and introduce tougher penalties for offenders.
Below is the full statement issued by Minister Humphrey:
As a Minister of Government, father and a representative of the people, I must place on record my profound shock and absolute horror at the senseless and despicable act of violence that circulated across social media yesterday, against one of our senior citizens.
Today, I join with Barbadians in condemning this incident! Our senior citizens have worked hard to help build this nation and have helped to shape post-independence Barbados, into the modern 21st century island, of which we are all proud. Our seniors have cut, contrived and sacrificed, to take care of themselves and their families as best as they could in their younger years. Consequently, they fully deserve to live and enjoy their golden years in harmony, peace and security.
This is why yesterday’s incident is so troubling to me! Notwithstanding this senseless act, my Ministry is fully aware of the problems being experienced by the elderly and over the coming months, it is my firm intention to bring to Parliament Ageing legislation, which will specifically address elderly abuse. Make no mistake! Persons found guilty in our law courts of abusing our elderly, will now face hefty fines and imprisonment, for committing such atrocious acts of violence against our seniors.
I am aware that a major investigation has been launched to apprehend the suspect. I wish to thank the police for their diligent efforts to locate the perpetrator and for their excellence in solving a number of other similar cases, over the course of this year.
My Ministry stands ready to open our social services to this gentleman and we will work assiduously to ensure that he receives the assistance he needs, to help him overcome this troubling ordeal.
Finally, I use this occasion to caution Barbadians on the need to be vigilant. I further caution those persons who are looking for easy prey, to see the elderly and leave them alone! I also appeal for us to be more caring to our elderly. They are the pillars of our society. They are deserving of our love and care and let us remember that they should at all times be treasured, valued and respected.
