THE EDITOR, Sir:
I HAVE listened with rapt attention, like any concerned citizen, to the debate in Parliament on the recent report on the abuse and neglect of children in care both in state and private institutions. The righteous condemnation by the Opposition and the predictable call for 'blood' by the talk show hosts will hopefully not disappear with the appearance of the next 'headline'.
I note with regret the absence of a single mention of the absent fathers in this whole sad affair. For too long many men behave like the loose village rams and walk away to impregnate the next female victim. It is not unknown that in a single village an irresponsible male impregnates half a dozen women, and just walks away. These sad females may end up mothering three or four children with as many different men. These unfortunate women hold on to the next man with the hope of caring for their fatherless children. The consequences are deeply disturbing. The absence of parental care predictably ends up in early pregnancy of the girls and anti-social behaviour, even violence, among the boys.
Of all the many talk show hosts it is only Ronnie Thwaites who tackles this issue with vigour and purpose. He tackled this issue in his brief time in Parliament. He received little or no support from his colleagues. He advocated the compulsory registration of all fathers. I believe this move will compel these human 'Tom Cats' to pause and think.
I am advised that Canada is the one country that not only adopts this practice but follows this up with a legal obligation to maintain offspring. This legal obligation follows the man around however often he changes his job. Of course job creation is a must but here is a positive beginning. Hit him in the pocket. He will be more careful with his zip.
It is not unknown in certain rural villages that a comparatively young woman bears children for five (5) different men. Half of these children have not been registered. These 'Tom Cat' misfits would boast how many children they have fathered. Challenge them as to their responsibilities they would be glibly dismissive, 'The girls can manage'. These pathetic females would blindly try the next man with the hope that one would stick around.
Let the over-talkative talk show hosts mount a combined massive campaign to change this attitude to national disaster.
They boast of the high percentage of audience they command. Use this advantage to mount a massive campaign of public education. Harass the government yes, but they have a responsibility besides calling for the minister's blood.
I am, etc.,
ARTHUR S. BYFIELD
St. Mary
