'Govt ensures child rights'

Sri Lanka providing free education and health services:

Irangika RANGE

The government is tirelessly working towards ensuring rights, freedom and opportunities for children, Social Services Minister Felix Perera said.

The minster said so participating at the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Fridsro Children's home in Bokkawala recently.

"Sri Lanka is in a high position in the world in providing education and health services as well as inculcation of moral values among children compared to other countries."

"But, still there are underprivileged children whom the government and social service officers could not reach. They have become orphans due to various reasons. They are deprived of homes, parents, finances and even basic rights. Some children have been abandoned due to their mothers working abroad," the minister said. He added that over 3,892 cases of child abuse were reported in 2011.

"This is a very unfortunate situation. We are in the process of ensuring protection and care for children who were victims of abuse and abduction or had been disowned by their families.

"They need affection, love and care similar to other children in the country. Therefore, we are dedicated to change the lives of children who have been abused and living under hardship."