Minister of Governance Gail Teixeira today told the Parliamentary Committee of Supply that it takes time to change the culture and habits of people, but there is a slow turn in society, with regards to violence in the country, as she justified the millions of dollars allocated to the Men on Mission Programme.

Today marked the start of the consideration of the budget estimates at the level of the Committee of Supply, and with more than $900 Million set aside for the Men on Mission Programme, Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul asked the Government Minister to provide “measurable data” on the impact that the programme is having on society, particularly men.

He reminded that the programme was designed to improve the behavior of men, helping them to be better fathers, partners, and change agents in society. Importantly, it sought to address issues of gender based violence and domestic violence.

In response, the Minister of Governance, said change requires time but there is a slow and positive change taking place.

“Mr. Chairman, it takes a long time to change people’s culture and habits, it doesn’t happen overnight. The culture of abuse, and the acceptance and tolerance of society for abuse and domestic violence, it takes a long time to change. This is focused on changing men’s attitude towards women, towards children, and playing a role as change agents, particularly in their communities,” Minister Teixeira said.

She said there has been heavy focus on addressing issues confronting men, including through workshops and community related programmes. However, emphasis has also been placed on producing support to the poor and vulnerable including women and children through the construction of homes.

“They are also focused on dealing with the very poor, providing housing for them. They have had those, and it takes time, and I believe right now generally what the government is doing both through the Ministry of Human Services and Office of the President with Men on Mission, that there is a slow turn in society to do with not tolerating the level of violence that we used to have before,” Minister Teixeira said.

The Governance Minister said although domestic violence continues, there is less tolerance as expressed in the media, and in the judiciary in terms of dealing with such cases and protection of women.

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