Minister Abrahams responds to concerns about Bill

A person found guilty of having sexual intercourse with a child under 16 could face life in prison if amendments to the Sexual Offences Bill become law. The bill was passed in the House of Assembly last week, and must now go before the Senate. Last night on CBC TV8's The People's Business Programme, Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams, expanded on several aspects of the document. He explained under current legislation, the court would allow for the lesser charge of sex with a minor, rather than rape. In some cases where children age 14 or 15 willingly engage in a sexual act. The bill also addresses the matter of grooming, which involves a person meeting or communicating with a child with the intention of committing a sexual act. In this instance, the individual could be jailed for 20 years. Meanwhile, President of the Men Empowerment Network Support, Fabian Sargeant, has welcomed the proposed amendments. He believes public education and support for parents will be key. Subscribe to CBC News: cbcbarbados Connect with the CBC News Barbados Website: https://www.cbc.bb/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CBCNews.bb/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbcnewsbarb... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBCBARBADOS #CBCTV8 #CBCNewsNight #ThisIsWhoWeAre