Issued by: Department of Justice
6 March 1997
As part of the departmental campaign on the prevention of violence against women, launched by the Deputy Minister of Justice, Dr Tshabalala-Msimang, on 25 November 1996, Friday 7 March has been declared an Open Court Day for Women.
The purpose of this day is to familiarise local communities, in particular women, with the court system and the administration of justice. Magistrates countrywide have been advised to consult with their various local Provincial Gender Representatives, NGO's and other government departments in order to decide on the course of action they should take in this regard.
The Open Court Day will serve to inform women of their rights and the legal avenues available to them in cases of domestic and sexual violence. In this way it will form an integral part of the Department's campaign to prevent and combat the despicable crimes committed against women in this country.
Details with regard to the events to take place all the various Magistrates' Offices, as well as relevant contact numbers, will be announced by the respective Magistrates Offices.
ISSUED BY THE CHIEF LIAISON OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
PRETORIA MARCH 1997
ENQUIRIES: ZELDA MOLETSANE TEL: 012-3151111 FAX: 012-211178