IFP calls for state funded national protector of children

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MS CONNIE ZIKALALA MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON ON CHILDREN & WOMEN'S ISSUES

November 21, 2006

The IFP spokesperson on Children and Women's issues, Ms Connie Zikalala, today expressed shock and dismay at the release of statistics by the Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa (CAPFSA) with regards to acts of violence, rape and negligence against children.

Ms Zikalala said:

"Everyday we see reports of acts of violence and rape being committed against children.  The statistics are appalling and something needs to be done to curb this scourge as a matter of urgency."

"We have recently launched the 16 Days of Activism campaign and although the importance of this campaign cannot be ignored, we still need to work throughout the year to help vulnerable women and children. Therefore, the IFP calls on the government to establish a state funded national protector for children so that we can provide them with the protection they so desperately need."

Ms Zikalala further explained that the IFP is aware of many private institutions and NGOs that have been doing stellar work in the area of child protection, but still feels that more needs to be done. She said: "The IFP believes that a centralised body working in conjunction with private institutions, NGOs and the provincial Departments of Social Services can increase the network of protection, give victims easy access to legal resources and expose not only these cowardly acts within the communities, but also the perpetrators of these cruel crimes."

In conclusion Ms Zikalala said: "Someone once said that the soul of a nation can be judged upon the treatment of the young and elderly, and if the current statistics are anything to go by - South Africa has lost its soul."


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ms Connie Zikalala MP: 083 282 8384
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848