Parents are being encouraged to provide their children with mobile phones for communication during what Police Minister Ioane Naivalurua has identified as a “high-risk period.” The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining regular contact with children, especially when they are away from home for long periods, such as attending school events or socializing with friends.
Mr. Naivalurua noted that effective communication is vital, not only among parents but also between parents and children. He stated, “These are gadgets we call now mobile telephones. Some of us do not agree that we should give our kids a telephone, but I’m one of those that advocates that our kids should have telephones, and that they’re using the telephone for a good reason, and it’s about communication.”
He reassured parents that they do not need to invest in expensive smartphone models, highlighting that even a basic phone would suffice to ensure that they can track their children’s whereabouts and maintain contact. “A cheap one that enables you to keep your communication alive. You’re able to know where your kids are,” he said.
Addressing the concerns of parental oversight, Mr. Naivalurua pointed out that many problems arise from parents being unaware of their children’s locations or who they are with, particularly during public events and after school hours. To counter this, he encouraged parents to establish clear ground rules, including regular check-ins, to ensure accountability and maintain their children’s safety.
“Basically it’s about knowing where your kids are,” he reminded parents. He urged those with spare phones available or the means to purchase a phone to do so, emphasizing that when used correctly, communication serves as a crucial tool in safeguarding children, especially during the bustling school sports season.
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