Chaguanas West MP Dinesh Rambally says the government’s slow pace in addressing the repatriation of Trinidadian children detained in Syrian camps has now been further complicated by the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria.
In a media release today, MP Rambally said this development adds an alarming layer of instability to an already dire humanitarian crisis.
"I have repeatedly called for action, stressing the need to separate the plight of innocent children from that of adults accused of crimes. Despite the government establishing a special repatriation committee, it has made hollow promises on umpteenth occasions with little or no tangible progress," he said.
Rambally said on October 10, 2024, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley informed the country during his budget contribution that legislation would be brought to the Parliament to treat with the humanitarian issue of children in conflict zones.
"Yesterday the Parliament effectively adjourned until the new year (2025). However, the situation now demands urgency, especially, as the political dynamics in Syria shift unpredictably. The government must act swiftly by engaging international organizations, including UNICEF and the Red Cross, and establishing secure channels to expedite the safe return of these children. Their welfare cannot be left in limbo. I implore the government to prioritize this issue before further complications arise, risking the lives and futures of these vulnerable young citizens," he said.
Rambally said we have a moral and constitutional duty to protect our children, no matter where they are and let us fulfil it without further delay.
