THE EDITOR, Sir:

Several issues regarding our Charter of Rights, the rights of the child and family values are now being contemplated and highlighted in our country. I believe that it is now time for us as a nation to consider consistency in our approach to truly building our nation through nurturing our children and encouraging healthy family life.

In 2001, I adopted a wonderful child who brought fulfilment and meaning to my then hectic and career-centred life. I was single then and we have had difficult times but I would not change a minute of my experience with my daughter for anything in this world.

It was only when I made the decision to adopt that I realised that there is NO provision for maternity leave for adoptive mothers in Jamaica. I was truly surprised as equal treatment for all mothers was (and still is) standard in Canada, my adopted home for 14 years.

I adopted my child when she was two months old. The person to whom I report at work adopted her child at seven days old. Both of us were single, professional women. Neither of us received any leave consideration from our then employers. There is no legal provision for this type of leave in Jamaica.

Bonding

I know from experience that it is especially important for adoptive children and parents to bond, especially during the first few months of life. These children are typically abandoned and can (even at a tender age) be quite distressed at first.

I noticed that the Child Development Agency has started actively encouraging people to consider foster care and adoption for our many needy children. However, who is advocating changes in our legal system to provide for the care and protection of our children?

The truth is that adoption benefits the child and also the adoptive parents. Caring for and loving a child is rewarding and should be encouraged.

I am, etc.,

JANICE ROBINSON

LONGMORE

Panton Road, Kingston 9