The Consell de Formentera has held a coordination meeting to set the protocol for assisting victims of forced injections of date rape drugs or other substances. The meeting was attended by Rafael Ramírez, councillor of social welfare; Josep Marí, councillor of interior, and representatives of Formentera Local Police, Civil Guard and Formentera Hospital.
"Drugging women, whether by needle spiking or other gender-based violence, is absolutely unacceptable", said Councillor Ramírez, who asserted that "any such attacks are crimes which will be prosecuted". He stressed that "needle spiking is a way to dissuade women from going out and enjoying festivities and nightlife". Ramírez insisted, "Women should be able to participate in festivities without fear and the Consell de Formentera, in collaboration with other security forces and the hospital, will work to make sure this is the case".
Councillor Marí stressed that "it is important that female victims of needle spiking know that the public administrations will give them full support and attention". Formentera Local Police, Civil Guard, emergency 112 service and Formentera Office of Social Welfare staff, who will man the "No Means No!" (No i punt!) tent, will follow an emergency protocol to support victims. "All these administrations will coordinate to provide the best care to victims at this delicate time", said Rafael Ramírez.
Meeting participants were also briefed on recommendations for possible victims of spiking by injection and witnesses able to assist victims. These recommendations were agreed between the Balearic Government and island councils.
-If at a private business establishment, notify staff. If at a public celebration, visit the local "No i punt!" stand.
-Call 112, Formentera Local Police and/or Civil Guard.
-Follow instructions from Formentera Local Police, Civil Guard or "No i punt!" staff.
-Stay with your group of friends if you are not feeling well.
-If you find a victim, listen to them and offer to call a friend for support. Do not leave them alone.
-Visit the Formentera Hospital emergency room, where tests can be performed.
-If in need of psychological care, call 112 for the on-call psychologist.
-File a complaint with Civil Guard.
IBDONA's 24-hour service is also available at 971 178 989 and the Women's Information and Assistance Service (9.00am to 2.00pm, Monday to Friday) at 971 321 271.
This protocol has been sent to Espai Dones and the local small and medium-sized business association (PIMEF).
12 August 2022
Communications Office
Consell de Formentera
Today Ana Juan, president of the Consell de Formentera, and Sara Miguel, vice president of the NGO Formenterers Solidaris, signed a €10,000 collaboration agreement to distribute food to vulnerable islanders and implement cooperation projects for developing countries in 2022. Rafael Ramírez, councillor for social welfare, was also present at the signing.
The Consell de Formentera will set up a table to discourage gender-based violence and alcohol consumption during festive events on the island this summer. The campaign starts Saturday 16 July at Festes del Carme and continues 22, 24 and 25 July for the feast day of Sant Jaume and 4 and 5 August for the feast day of Santa Maria.
