come to light.

That is one measure being considered as part of a shake-up of child protection legislation.

It would mean a person who knew of a neighbour abusing a child would run foul of the law by staying silent.

Nursery school staff would face the same legal responsibility.

Another possible change to the law is to spell out principles of children's rights.

This would try to guarantee rights in the same way as the Human Rights Act.

The moves under review were disclosed this week by Mr. Carl Musson, Permanent Secretary of Health and Social Services.

Last week Health Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness announced a sweeping overhaul of his Ministry.

It followed signs of widespread child abuse in nursery schools.

The Department of Social Services is to be reorganised into the Department of Financial Assistance and the Department of Child and Family Services.

And Probation Services will provide leadership in developing a "community-based correctional service'' for Bermuda.

The changes are to be phased in, and should be in place by March, 1994.

Mr. Edness said Government had also set out to amend the Protection of Children Act 1943.

Mr. Musson said the aim was to "enhance the protection'' of youngsters.

"We thought we would take the opportunity to review the Act and its deficiencies in light of current issues','' he said. "It's a very broad review and a whole host of amendments are being considered.'' Mr. Musson was reluctant to elaborate since legislative changes had not been completed.

"Nothing has been finalised, and I feel a little uncomfortable going into detail. I think it would be premature to do so.'' But Mr. Musson did reveal mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect was under review.

This would give statutory obligations on anyone who was aware of such wrongdoing.

"It could be a neighbour who is made aware of child abuse,'' added Mr.

Musson.

He admitted there could be potential problems with such statutory requirements because it could lead to friction with family members reporting on each other.

"It is a difficult issue and there has to be a balance. Nothing has been decided on this,'' said Mr. Musson.

Mr. Musson stressed Government recognised the importance of the "family unit''.

And legislation would seek to avoid the risk of breaking up families.

Mr. Musson outlined part of the general thrust of the amendments.

It was planned to "specify some basic principles about children's rights to provide a backdrop for legislation''.

For example, children's religious, cultural and ethnic differences may be given recognition.

This would provide a legal framework for services which cater for children.

Mr. Musson said he hoped the legal amendments would be in place within a year.

"A very high priority is being given to the proposed amendments, and we are making every effort to ensure things are done as quickly as possible,'' said Mr. Musson.