(CMR) Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism and Port, said the implementation of a sex offenders registry should be considered for the protection of the vulnerable in the Cayman Islands.
Speaking on a motion that calls for the sale of pepper spray for personal protection and self-defense in Parliament on Thursday, Bryan said the Government should also consider a sex offenders registry.
“I think we need to go further than this pepper spray. Madam Speaker, for a long time, I know many of us in this room have heard about the sexual offenders registry. And say what you want about Ms. Sandra Hill on Cayman Marl Road, but I give her credit where credit is due. She has been on this topic as long as I have known her to be speaking publicly,” Bryan said.
“We don't always agree for sure, but she has been a strong advocate for this topic, and I think it is time that we take it seriously from a Parliamentary perspective,” he added.
Bryan, who supported the motion, said many people are concerned about their safety and the need to defend themself from assault. He pointed out that most of these assaults are usually carried out in relation to robbery or theft and sexual assault.
“We also have to look at the bigger picture of criminality and safety for those who are vulnerable. though I support this motion, I ask that we as a country actually genuinely look at a sex offenders registry,” Bryan added.
He said people may say the Cayman Islands is a small community, and if you name offenders, victims may be identified. However, he said, the register can be tailored to suit Cayman.
Bryan pointed out that many convicted of sexual assault already recorded a second offense.
“A woman or man could have acted a little more cautiously around an individual if they are aware,” he added.
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