To date, 725 abuse cases have been reported by professionals under the Child Welfare Decree of 2010, says Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa.

During the National Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Day (PCAN) celebration at the Foreshore Park in Savusavu yesterday, Ms Vuniwaqa said the decree mandates professionals to report on the harm or likely harm of a child to her Permanent Secretary so that children can receive immediate support from Social Welfare officers.

“The reported cases continue to increase and we believe that these are some effects of the awareness created to inform the public through community and stakeholder advocacy programmes provided by the ministry and its loyal partners,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.

“As a Government ministry responsible for the protection of children, we are committed to ensuring that children are protected from violence, exploitation and abuse.

“The Child Service Unit in the Department of Social Welfare has the legislative responsibilities in the protection of children and for these there are specific laws that govern child protection.

“Government invests in our children’s protection and development through health, education and welfare and it is our responsibility as parents and guardians to do justice to our children. PCAN is a worldwide effort to recognise our collective responsibility to prevent and confront all forms of child abuse and neglect.”

The theme for this celebration is ‘Great childhood begins from home’.

“I believe that home and family are the most important, the most influential institutions in society,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.

“My ministry urges everyone about the need to be responsible for our children and to take time to guide them.

“I would like to acknowledge the declaration by the Fiji Council of Churches on their nationwide effort from Sunday this week to highlight the incidence of domestic violence and child abuse through religious teachings, sermons and liturgies.

“Initiatives such as this ‘break the silence on violence’ does give victims courage to approach religious institutions for refuge and counselling knowing that the institutions have condemned the practice,” she said.

Permanent Secretary Dr Josefa Koroivueta was also present at the event.