President Dr Irfaan Ali has directed the establishment of a broad-based inter-agency task force to develop comprehensive recommendations and actions aimed at addressing the welfare, mental health and safety of children in Guyana.
The decision followed a consultative engagement on Friday involving representatives from the Government, the Judiciary, the Speaker of the National Assembly, constitutional commissions, law enforcement agencies and civil society organisations.
During the meeting, participants examined several critical issues affecting children and agreed that immediate, decisive and coordinated action is needed in response to recent events.
The discussions emphasised that protecting children must be a collective responsibility involving parents, Government, schools, religious institutions, social organisations, law enforcement agencies, the Judiciary and other key stakeholders.
Among the measures identified were increased public awareness and education, stronger parental support, expanded school activities, psychosocial assistance, mentoring programmes and the promotion of healthy recreational activities for children.
Participants also considered the need to address the influence of music, social media and other forms of exposure on children, alongside reviewing existing laws, law enforcement approaches and the administration of justice.
To advance the process, President Ali directed the Attorney General to coordinate an inter-agency task force comprising representatives from Government, the Judiciary, law enforcement, religious organisations, civil society and other relevant stakeholders.
The task force is expected to develop a comprehensive plan outlining recommendations and specific actions for consideration, review and implementation.
The initiative seeks to establish a coordinated national response to the challenges affecting children, with a focus on strengthening their protection, well-being and overall development.
