Commission could stem tide of child abuse
There has been a great deal of discussion about how to deal with the increase in child abuse cases.
Some people say the problem lies with young couples being too immature to look after a child properly. Others cite inadequate support on the part of the Social Welfare Department. I am in accord with those people who have called for the setting up of a children's commission.
There are clear cases of abuse, such as physical, sexual and psychological; such abuses have a devastating effect on a child.
Hong Kong is a busy city and parents have to work tirelessly to earn a living. Often they employ domestic helpers and some maids do mistreat the children in their care.
Sometimes the problem lies with the parents. As I said, they may lack adequate knowledge of parenting or they may be suffering from depression. There are some adults who do not know how to communicate with their sons and daughters.
There should be programmes available for people who recognise they need to learn parenting skills.