Minister mourns mother and child from Barrackpore

Gender and Children Affairs Minister Ayanna Webster-Roy has condemned the murder of a Barrackpore woman and her 14-month-old daughter.

The 34-year-old woman and her baby were found bludgeoned to death at their house at Location Road, Rochard Road, Barrackpore yesterday.

In a statement offering his condolences to the family of Tara and Jada Ramsaroop, Webster-Roy said the terrible loss could have been prevented.

Webster-Roy said: “I would like to emphasize that all acts of violence against women and children are preventable. It is our shared responsibility as a society to ensure that our families and communities are places of safety. We have the power to prevent such tragedies.”

The Minister committed to working with stakeholders to ensure the care and welfare of Ramsaroop’s eight-year-old son.

She also assured that counseling services would be extended to the family.

The minister appealed to people to seek help at the first sign of distress before stress increases.

“Remember, time is of the essence. Please don’t wait; Don’t take any chances because things may never get better. Early reporting is crucial to prevent further damage.”

Webster-Roy said all incidents of domestic violence or child abuse should be reported to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (999), the Children’s Services Hotline (996 or 800-2014) or CHILDLINE131 or 800-4321.

The minister stressed that reporting is crucial in dealing with such matters.

“Help is available at any time through the NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE 800-SAVE (7283) or the NATIONAL FAMILY SERVICES DIVISION at 623-2608 (ext. 6701 to 6715). You are not alone! Please use these services!”

“Every life taken, every child left emotionally or physically scarred, is one too many. The department stands in solidarity with every man, woman and child. Unite to end domestic violence and all forms of child abuse in our beloved country,” Webster-Roy concluded.