The National Committee for Families and Children (NCFC) recognizes today as a historic victory in championing the rights, welfare and development of our Belizean children as the Criminal Code Amendments have finally passed. At this time of the year when the nation is reminded of the hope and promise that accompanies the birth of a child we are elated that our Government has agreed to increase the protection offered to our greatest assets, our Belizean children. What better gift to give the children of Belize than a safer Belize to live in where the laws are more robust and provide complete protection for them and hold violators accountable. We congratulate the Government of Belize for progressively working to be more compliant with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and make this a country that prioritizes the protection of its youngest citizens. The NCFC also commends the various social sector partners that have, for so many years, devoted their energies to this cause. There have been many consultations, research, reports, lobbying and advocacy for these legislative reforms and this has culminated in the passing of the Amendments. Our partners must be commended for staying the course and keeping the welfare and development of our children at the heart of their work. Today’s achievement demonstrates the benefits of working together to bring about substantive changes to the lives of our children. The NCFC will ensure that it amplifies its public education and training efforts targeting those stakeholders who have pivotal roles in securing compliance with the Amendments. The Committee will also provide platforms for families to learn of the new protections provided as well as how they can interface with the Child Protection System. The NCFC urges parents to remain vigilant and to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our children during this season. We take this opportunity to also wish our children and families a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May the New Year bring us many more victories on their behalf.
For any further information contact:
National Committee for Families and Children
Luwani Cayetano
Executive Director
62 Cleghorn Street, Belize City,Belize
Tel: 223.0059
ncfc@btl.net