A series of public information sessions will be held on a new law aimed at protecting seniors from abuse from professional carers.

The Senior Abuse Register Act 2008 was recently passed by Parliament and will mean the names of those working in residential facilities or private homes who abuse elderly people will be placed on a register.

The legislation does not cover abuse or neglect by family members. The first public information session will be held on Monday, April 28 at Penno's Wharf Cruise Ship Terminal at St. Georges at 7 p.m. until 8.30 p.m, with hot refreshments from 6.30 p.m.

The next session is on Tuesday, April 29 at the Anglican Cathedral Hall in Hamilton from 12.30 p.m. to 2 p.m., with refreshments from noon. The last session will be held on Wednesday, April 30 from 7 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. at the Sandys Middle School Auditorium, with refreshments from 6.30 p.m.

People will be able to ask questions and copies of the new law will be available. Those wanting a copy of the Act before the sessions can collect one from the National Office for Seniors and the Physically Challenged at 60 Victoria Street, Hamilton. For more information call 292-7802.