Chairperson of the 29th Independence Celebrations Committee Sharon Rattan disclosed that as head of the committee, she lobbied for the focus to be on children to help focus on the work being done by one of the departments, (department of probation), in the ministry that she overseas in her government position.

The department of probation she explained will be doing a public education outreach with the aim of increasing awareness of the department and to share with the general public the services that are accessible.

Rattan also made mention of the number reforms made by the government involving children, highlighting the right to education; stating that they are hoping to  reaffirm and emphasize the importance of that right.

She also talked about the decision this year for the government ministers visits to schools to now involve primary and pre-school students.

On 14th September, a new activity that will feature the young persons will take place in Basseterre, featuring the cadets and also the police drum corps juniors.

She added that the committee wanted to ensure all of the activities fit in with the theme and did not consider other activities for that reason.

Rattan concluded by urging parents to continue the tradition of attending the Independence Parade with their children and to transform it into a family affair.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Cherishing Children, Strengthening Families.”