Number of child abuse cases unacceptable – Min. Webster

Sep 25, 2012 News

---

 

There are currently too many children who are vulnerable and at risk, a state of affairs that has been linked to instances of failure on the part of adults. This situation has therefore amplified the need for increased child protection throughout the country, according to Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Jennifer Webster.

Her disclosures were detailed in a message to mark Child Protection Week which commenced on Sunday.
According to Minister Webster, the number of confirmed cases of abused children for the year so far, is quite unacceptable.
“We all know that for many children the reality out there is far from the ideal. The statistics tell a story,” the Minister said. “There is no voice and face to the human tragedy of abuse and neglect.”
Abuse and neglect, the Minister asserted, serves to effectively rob victims of their self esteem and dignity, and affects their mental and physical health. This, by extension, allows for a negative impact on families and the society as a whole, she added.
“In addressing children’s issues and rights we need to pay attention to the primary caregivers,” the Minister emphasized.
She made reference to the Child Protection Agency (CPA) which, according to her, is demanding that adults take action now to stop abuse. Children by their nature, she explained, are vulnerable and dependent upon adults for their survival.
She said that much work is being done to ensure that children are made aware of their rights, responsibilities and the actions they should take, in the face of abuse.
“This is placing the responsibility for the protection of our children on tiny shoulders. This cannot be allowed to continue. Therefore, it is time that adults take responsibility for keeping our children safe,” the Minister asserted as she warned that “neglect, violence and pain should form no part in the lives of our children.”
In fact, she pointed to the innocence, vulnerability and dependent nature of children, even as she highlighted how curious, active and full of hope they usually are. She noted that their time should be one of joy and peace, of playtime, learning and enjoying their childhood. Children’s future, she added, should be shaped in harmony and cooperation allowing them to mature as they broaden their perspective and gain new experiences.
“The responsibility is ours as adults to make that happen. Our role begins in the home as parents and guardians, but extends to the wider society, including the community, schools and religious gatherings.
“I believe that there can be no greater gift in life than that of inspiring a child’s future. Indeed, this is the basis for the value placed on the teaching profession; our teachers have the responsibility and the privilege of guiding and inspiring the children in their care to achieve their full potential,” the Minister said.
Webster underscored that adults owe it to children in their community to take action to prevent abuse. Community members, she said, must learn to recognize when a child is at risk, and be able to ascertain what support and assistance should be offered.
In order to prevent child abuse, she added that “we must dedicate our efforts to change some of the inappropriate attitudes and behavioural patterns towards children which exist within our communities.
“We must see our children as having a right to grow up in an environment that is free from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Child abuse, leads to the destruction of a child. We must stop child abuse now!”
The success of each child, she offered, is dependent upon the collective and individual responsibility of all; a responsibility that none of us can afford to neglect. “We need to nurture our children to realize their full potential so that they can become productive adults. They need to be cared for, educated and loved.
“As a country we have our fair share of challenges. Our children need special protection and guidance. They are the future leaders of Guyana,” the Minister insisted.
Although Guyana has made significant strides in addressing this dilemma, the Minister did admit that there is room for improvement. She related that there are several key pieces of legislation, which were passed in the National Assembly to protect the rights of children.
In addition, she revealed that Guyana is a signatory to the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child.
In appealing to the citizenry to work together to secure a bright future for children the Minister sought to “recommit our Government’s support towards the protection of our children, and to indicate that this issue will continue to be given the highest priority. Let us all unite and take action against child abuse. The time is now!”
This year Child Protection Week is being observed under the theme, “Adults, Take Action Against Child Abuse: The Time is Now!”
Child Protection Week is an annual event aimed at increasing awareness as it relates to the issues of child abuse. It is observed in over 120 countries worldwide. It was first observed in Guyana in 2004 to propel local groups and individuals into action to ensure that children are kept safe in light of the fact that many children have encountered abuse in one way or another with adults being the perpetrators.

---

---