Minister calls for joint effort for stronger families |15 May 2010

  
Mrs Lloyd addressing guests ad delegates at the opening of the conference yesterday

The conference, launched by Minister for Health and Social Development Marie-Pierre Lloyd, forms part of the activities organised to mark International Day of Families today.

Guests included Minister for Community Development, Youth, Sports and Culture Vincent Meriton, Minister for Education Bernard Shamlaye and principal secretary for social development Linda William.

Mrs Lloyd said this year’s theme – Lafanmir fas avek fleo sosyal: Annou reflesir lo lavenir  –calls on everyone to come together to reflect more seriously on the new challenges faced by our families today and, more importantly, to find solutions to build stronger families.

“All partners – families and the family welfare agencies and organisations – should renew their effort and commitment in the fight against social ills, a major setback to us having solid families,” she said.

Mrs Lloyd said with the structure of the family changing, and the effect of globalisation and economic development, many families lose their moral and spiritual values.

“These changes should not influence the good traditional values we used to have. Human values, respect, honesty are the foundation for strong families and these should be encouraged,” she said.

Mrs Lloyd also called on parents to reflect on their role and responsibilities and find ways to get rid of bad influences in the community.

Delegates at the conference listened to a testimony from a parent whose son is on drugs, and also heard presentations on the risks of unhealthy lifestyles, the abuse of technology, trends and statistics of family violence and families faced with social ills.