National Security Minister Stuart Young has called on the men of this country to accept the role they play in ensuring the safety of the nation’s women and children.

He made the call while speaking on a political platform in Belmont on Thursday night, as the People’s National Movement hosted a Virtual Public Meeting. 

“Tonight I speak to you as a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago- and I have a simple message- to all of us men out there: Remember the God-given responsibility that we must all carry…to protect the vulnerable in society, our women and children,” Young said. 

Reflecting on the nation’s mourning over the passing of Andrea Bharatt, the National Security Minister said he believed it represented a “culmination” of grief. 

“We are aware of the mood…of all that has taken place. And the recent culmination-because it’s not about a single individual. On reflection it’s it’s about the Shannons, the Ashantis, and the Andreas. It’s about protecting our women and children. And we all know how many have suffered at the hands of evil…” he recounted. 

He vowed to do do “all that he can” in his capacity as Minister of National Security, to tackle the issue of gender based violence. 

“For the last five and a half years, Minister Webster-Roy (Gender Affairs Minister) has worked tirelessly and I have my tried my best to assist her in the provision of safe homes…programs…etc… to protect our vulnerable,” the Minister said.