Government honoured the Universal Day of the Child yesterday by pledging to protect the Island's most precious resource its children.

Neletha Butterfield, Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation, Mayor of Hamilton Charles Gosling, and representatives from Child and Family Services, the Family Centre, Coalition for Protection of Children, Teen Services and Court Services were present at yesterday's proclamation ceremony.

The Universal Day of the Child, celebrated throughout the world to honour children and make a commitment to their future health and happiness, also saw honoured guests from Warwick Preschool, Heritage Nursery and Preschool, The Learners Nursery and Preschool and Northlands Primary Choir showcase their music and dancing talents.

Ms Butterfield said: "The Government of Bermuda stands prepared to uphold the view that every child is a precious resource and continues to advocate the expansion of opportunities for children to reach their fullest potential.

"Whereas a family performs a crucial role in ensuring a healthy tomorrow by providing guidance and engaging in activities that strengthen relationships, between parents and children. We as the Ministry of Culture and Social Rehabilitation resolve to protect children at every cost.

"This day acknowledges the stark reality of children who are vulnerable and endured the injustice of child abuse and neglect. Hand in hand with the community we intend to create a climate that would ensure children are protected from all forms of exploitation."

The Ministry also recognised the hardships that many children face and reaffirmed the right for children to have the highest standard of living possible for physical, mental, social and spiritual development.

Ms Butterfield added: "Whereas this Government aims to foster a social consciousness and commitment within the community that will encourage all citizens to come together to mentor our youth about the dangers of substance abuse and violence, it is up to every parent that we lead them by example to a path that promotes healthy, responsible, passionate leaders of the future".

Glenda Edwards, the Supervisor for Family Services, said the Day served to make countries accountable for the quality of lives of their children. She said: "We have laws in place to protect children from abuse, neglect and exploitation. However in spite of all these safeguards we know there are children in Bermuda who are suffering."

Ms Edwards continued: "It is a responsibility of all adults here to speak up on behalf of all those children. As this is a day of reflection worldwide we ask that you give some thought to the over 600 million children who are living in abject poverty, suffer from poor nutrition and inadequate health care."

Last night, Department of Child and Family Services also held a private ceremony to honour children from all schools for their humanitarian qualities, such as kindness, compassion and empathy. Ms Edwards said: "These children are truly our ambassadors. I challenge everyone to follow their lead and make this a world fit for children."