Children and Family Services act needs amending

I am writing in regard to the article about calls to improve supports for young people who fall outside the scope of the Nova Scotia Children and Family Services Act after reaching the age of 16 (Child advocates want government hopefuls to state position on changes to act, Sept. 21).

Parents have obligations and responsibilities in providing care for their children. If parents have difficulty, or are unable to provide adequate care, then the Canadian government is obligated to provide the necessary supports.

In 1991, Canada ratified the legally binding United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This convention includes all children up to age 18. Government or “state” parties are to provide all supports for children in need. State refers to a government body of UN member countries.

I hope that at least one provincial political party will take interest in this concerning matter.

Sydney resident Delores Feltmate and Nova Scotia auditor general Jacques Lapointe have good reason to be concerned that the provincial community services department will not broaden its definition of neglect.

The Children and Family Services Act is contradictory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and needs to be amended, increasing the age to 18.

All children and youth need to have their rights upheld. Also, every Canadian should be educated on the convention. Steve Tutty Port Caledonia