– in wake of Neesa Gopaul’s gruesome murder
THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) is urging that there should be a comprehensive systems review in wake of the gruesome murder of 16-year old Neesa Gopaul.
The trade union umbrella body which represents the majority of workers in Guyana in a statement said that as the major grouping of trade unions representing Guyana’s organised workers it feels compelled to offer comment and advice on matters of social significance which impact negatively or otherwise on any section of the nation’s working-class. “One such situation has arisen is the alarming rise in the incidence of domestic violence, including spousal and child abuse in our society. The bestial murder of an abused female Queens College student, Neesa Gopaul has sent additional outrage and shock waves throughout the country.”

“Until justice is fully served and closure is given to the more bereaved relatives of Neesa, FITUG with due respect to their feelings wish to offer its own reaction to this heinous crime against our nation’s youth,” the statement said.

It added: “We have noted all the justified outrage and condemnation of the relative “systems” and all who man them. FITUG also feels that some obvious procedures, warning signs and official response should share the moral guilt of neglect and indifference. However, if anything at all POSITIVE could result from this young lady’s demise we feel it should be characterized by the following.”

FITUG is also urging that every community must now be made vividly aware of the agencies and officials responsible for investigating real or alleged child abuse.
“Now is the time for Guyanese to understand how the school system, the police force, the child-care and the local government must respond to pleas for help. Let there be clear directions, through public awareness programmes, so that individuals and families may know exactly what to do and where to go,” the statement said

FITUG said it notes Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Ms. Priya Manickchand’s assurances about her Ministry’s protocols for investigating cases of abuse.
“We note too the Home Affairs Minister’s reminder that the Police are obliged to enter every allegation into their crime books under a Police Standing Order No.63. This was put there to ensure timely follow-up. And reportedly, 14 religious groups have just signed a Joint Communiqué on Domestic Violence. These are welcome moves to combat any descent into the abyss of child and spousal abuse at the national level,” FITUG said

FITUG said however, it must enjoin the human spirit, the community commitment, old-fashioned families and parenting, to combine in a nation-wide assault on this depravity, noting that The worst manifestation of man’s inhumanity to man, is when close relations can commit such foul deeds and a community does not respond effectively.

“Let every neighbour be his/her neighbour’s keeper once again. That resurgence community care will be our best response to the memory of young Neesa Gopaul,” FITUG urged.