The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago has stated that it is profoundly saddened by the tragic deaths of three children and the wounding of two 14-year-olds, early this morning, September 21.

In a statement, the Authority also extended its condolences to their families and friends.

It was further noted that the children lost their lives in the very space where they were supposed to feel most at peace, protected and loved.

“At 10, 14 and 17, they were all on the cusp of new and exciting times in their lives, with much to look forward to. The Authority remains deeply disturbed by the alarming and increasing trend of violence affecting children, especially gun violence.”

The organisation also condemned the increase in gun violence that is affecting communities and threatening the lives and safety of our country’s children. Many children have suffered injuries and loss of life, as a result of violent acts committed against them by adults or among adults. Earlier this week, a one-year-old Venezuelan child was struck by a stray bullet, while playing outside his home.

Director/Chief Executive Officer Sheldon Cyrus appealed for an end to crime in Trinidad and Tobago. He said that “the fallout of the war that citizens are waging against each other is leading to broken families. Children also are forced to grow up without their parents and relatives, and parents and relatives are grieving the loss of their children”.

Mr. Cyrus added, “the psychological toll that all this loss and grief takes on our society is wide- reaching. The impact goes even further, as our children are now growing in a space where they must be hyper-vigilant – unable to play, rest or even sleep peacefully in their homes.”

“Living with that fear”, he noted, “is very damaging and will have repercussions for our children’s future”. The Authority, therefore, renews its call for a return to the “village”, to a time when people took care of each other. As a nation, all efforts must be made to protect children and reduce their risk of exposure to violence, and other dangerous situations.

The Authority’s Director/CEO also stated that “the entire village of trusted adults – parents, relatives and neighbours must recognise that child protection is everybody’s business”.

The national community is encouraged to report any incidents of violence or criminal activity which may affect the safety of a child to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service at 999 or the
Authority at 996.