IT is interesting that the police have warned parents to be aware of their children’s whereabouts this festive season.
Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro issued the warning in response to concerns about the number of children seen loitering around towns and cities early in the morning.
As far as young children are concerned, Ms Naisoro said, it’s the responsibility of their parents to be aware of their whereabouts.
“We can’t stop them from coming to town if they’re there to watch a movie or meet up with friends as some are there with the knowledge of their parents and guardians.”
However, if police came across young children still in town late at night and into the early mornings, she said, they would ask them to go home or get in touch with their parents.
We agree with Ms Naisoro that there is a need for parents and guardians to be vigilant and alert about their children’s whereabouts at all times.
It is a concern that young children are still being seen in popular malls around the Capital City for instance, selling food parcels daily.
Could this be a reflection of society?
Are some parents simply careless, or are they engaging their young to assist them to put food on their table?
About five years ago, there was a concerted effort by the police and the Suva City Council to monitor the use of internet cafes by children at night in the Capital City.
We noted at the time there was a disturbing perception that children flocked to these cafes late at night.
It attracted negative perceptions and discussions.
The move was also aimed at fighting the issue of children loitering in the city at night.
Perhaps there is a need for us to truly understand why children are loitering in the Capital City late at night or any other time for that matter.
Processes are in place to ensure our children have the base for an education. It is important that all possible attributing factors are established before a decision to effectively counter the scenario is put in place.
Safety concerns will come to the fore. Perhaps when we are able to agree, and establish who should be responsible for the welfare of children, we may be able to then clearly define a course of action.
Parental obligation and responsibility are clearly important issues.
As we head into the festive season, adult supervision will be in demand.
Not that some children will be embracing it with open arms though.
But, surely, the issue of who is responsible for their care must be given due prominence.
