The Child Protection Awareness booth at the City Mall.

Ministry staffers set up booths in front of Courts, Main Street; Republic Bank, Water Street; City Mall, Regent Street; Gafoors’ Mall, Houston; and Demico House, Kitty, to disseminate information and sensitise the public to the devastating effects of child abuse, as well as the services offered by the Ministry.

Director of the Child Care and Protection Agency, Diana Lawrence, said that the fliers, brochures, and pamphlets that were being distributed sparked a lot of interest in passers-by. She noted that people were eager to learn more about the services offered by the Ministry.

The Agency is responsible for removing children from abusive situations and placing them in institutions set up by the Ministry, such as the Sophia Care Centre, Drop-In Centre and the Mahaica Children’s Centre. These institutions, which also receive assistance from various Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), provide a safe and healthy environment for abused children.

Alternatively, the Agency seeks responsible individuals who are desirous of providing foster care, in an effort to allow the children to be exposed to the care and stability of a family. The foster system, though temporary, provides for a more nurturing environment.

The legal process of adoption is also encouraged by the Agency, as this would ensure the permanent security of a family.

Lawrence made an appeal to the public not to turn a blind eye to children who might be in an abusive environment. She also urged parents to discipline their children in such a way so as to assert love, not power.

Prior to the launching of the Child Care and Protection Agency in July, Government had embarked on a legislative programme which saw the passage of three of five Children’s Bill; the Protection of Children Bill, the Status of Children Bill, and the Adoption of Children Bill. The Child Care and Development Services Bill and the Custody Guardianship Maintenance and Access Bill are before a Special Select Committee.

In 2004, Guyana joined over 120 countries in observing Child Protection Week which aims at alleviating all forms of abuse of children, the most vulnerable section of the society. This year, it is being observed under the theme “Caring Communities Raise Caring Children, Protect them Now.” A road show will be held on Saturday. (GINA)