Coalition against flogging to solve crime

THE Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CADV) expressed its opposition to all forms of violence, in a comment on Independent Senator Anthony Vieira’s recent call for flogging to be used to punish certain crimes and be a deterrent.

Speaking on Tuesday in the Senate on an Opposition motion alleging the Government has failed to curb serious crime, Vieira said the country’s law still allows the use of the cat-o-nine tails to flog individuals convicted of certain crimes.

The Corporal Punishment Offenders Over 18 Act lets judges impose 20 strokes of the cat, or a birch cane, for grievous wounding with a firearm or a sharp or pointed object, assault by a corrosive fluid or a destructive or explosive substance to disfigure or do grievous bodily harm, robbery with violence or aggravation, rape, and incest.

Vieira had suggested, “Child abuse, domestic violence – licks for anybody who wants to lash woman, who robs and beats old people, or who sexually molests a child.”

The coalition replied to Newsday by sending a statement that condemned violence in all its forms and advocated non-violence.

“Whilst perpetrators need to be held accountable, it should happen through approaches that ensure victim safety and self reflection leading to behaviour change and a commitment to equality, non-violence and restorative justice.”