“PARENTING is a shared responsibility. Fathers play a pivotal role in the upbringing of their children. They are a source of stability and strength in a family. For children, their fathers are often their first and ultimate heroes; they imitate them and they take example from their fathers.

“On this Fathers’ Day, 2014, I extend heartfelt greetings to all the fathers of Guyana. In so doing, I acknowledge the outstanding contributions that fathers have made to their households and to the development of their children.
“As a child, I grew up in a humble household, which was never short of fatherly affection. This made my childhood so much more enjoyable. Later, when I became a mother, my husband was the epitome of fatherly attentiveness, love and care to all of our children. More importantly, he set a good example by being a good husband. His constant presence and concern for us has enriched our family life in ways that cannot be quantified. He remains an excellent role model for all fathers. From my own experience therefore, I can appreciate the value of fathers in the lives of their children.
“I want to use this occasion of Fathers’ Day to encourage fathers to play a greater role in the lives of their children. And I would like to urge all children to take kindly to their fathers, and to try to understand and appreciate them. Fathers may be symbols of strength and authority with families, but they, too, are human, and need to be shown affection and love.
“On this Fathers’ Day, 2014, may all fathers find love and acknowledgment. Happy Fathers’ Day!”