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Yesterday at the ANC policy conference in Midrand, Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Lulu Xingwana, called for Sexual Offences Courts to be reinstated, something that the Democratic Alliance has long been advocating for.

We welcome the fact that the Minister has changed her view, and now supports this proposal.

Minister Xingwana must now ensure her support for this proposal is translated into action. She should place this on the agenda of the next meeting of the Cabinet, and ensure that her colleagues in government, and particularly in the Department of Justice, are galvanised to ensure its speedy implementation.

Earlier this month, the Democratic Alliance (DA) held press conferences outlining how government should be tackling the growing child rape crisis. I will today be sending our comprehensive document  to Minister Xingwana, detailing six clear proposals for government to take to ensure the safety and well-being of our children. This includes the urgent call to re-establish Sexual Offences Courts.

The Minister must show us that she is serious about protecting our children, and present a comprehensive plan outlining what steps she will be taking to ensure that these courts are re-established.

Minister Xingwana should be taking the leading role in ensuring that children who are abused, neglected, at risk or vulnerable are protected and receive the necessary support and services they deserve and are entitled to. Re-establishing Sexual Offenses Courts will be an important first step towards achieving this.