Mr. Speaker, November 19 is World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse.
The objective of this day is to be a rallying point around the issue of child abuse and the urgent need for prevention programs. The day was established in 2000 by the Women's World Summit Foundation in order to persuade governments and civil society organizations to play a more active role in the promotion of and respect for the rights of the child.
Violence affects everyone, not just in homes and families, but also in schools, institutions, work environments and communities.
Children and youth are the most likely to be victims of violence, be it physical, psychological or sexual.
Increasing prevention measures, improving protection and raising public awareness are effective ways of addressing the problem.
I invite my colleagues on both sides of the House to mark this important day and ensure that we are doing everything in our power to prevent child abuse.