The Editor, Sir:

It is the right of fathers to be involved in the lives of their children without hindrance. Fathers have a right to spend time with their children (away from the mothers), the right to be given information about their children's health, education and welfare, and the right to partake in decisions significantly affecting the children.

In today's world, parental guidance is a must if we want our children to excel and not fall by the wayside. Fathers must be allowed to bond with their children and to establish good and meaningful relationships, helping them with their class work and attending school/social functions, playing games with them and assisting and advising them in overcoming social and personal obstacles.

The rapport between fathers and children has great significance in promoting and defining family values and expectations. Fathers are needed not only to reinforce discipline and order, but to lead by example, to show love and tolerance, to give hope and guidance and to strengthen the safety nets from fear and failures.

Mothers, please give our children the opportunity to become well-rounded adults without running the risk of continuing the cycle of irresponsible and misguided parenting. We should take note that parental access to children is a right, being a parent is a privilege that we should not take for granted.

I am, etc.,

KHARL DALEY

kharldaley@jamaicans.com

Toronto

Canada

Via Go-Jamaica