MPs hit out at domestic violence

Government and opposition yesterday shared the adjournment time in Parliament to mark the international day against domestic violence, marked on November 25.

Social Policy Minister Dolores Cristina spoke on the various support structures to help victims of such violence as well as the recently enacted legislation. She also pointed out that domestic violence was not just about battering but included psychological violence. She stressed that violence could not be tolerated, under any circumstances and she paid tribute to all those working in this sector.

Labour MP Helena Dalli said the Domestic Violence Act was late and weak but even so, there were many deficiencies in its enforcement. She had recently come face to face with cases where the victims were put at a disadvantage when reporting violence because officers were not informed about the law. The authorities should ensure that officials, especially policemen were well trained to support victims and control the aggressors.