Education Minister Filipe Bole said the recent police findings relating to the rise in sexual offences committed in the Northern Division is quiet shocking.

His comments came after reports revealed the increase in sexual crimes committed against young children.

Bole said what is even more disturbing is the link between the rise in sexual offenses to the parent’s absence from home, socializing around a yaqona basin, adding this parental behaviour and attitude cannot be condoned.

He stressed that parents need to understand that government, through the Ministry of Education, is expanding financial resources to put every child to school, ensuring a better future, highlighting that government continues to seek avenues to pursue this so that Fiji becomes a nation that offers free education.

Bole urged parents to reciprocate the assistance by saving money spent on activities such as yaqona sessions and cigarettes for priority activities for the family, especially children.

He added through grog parties, valuable time is wasted that could be well utilized at home with children.

Bole said the police findings have revealed that time spent away from home is time enough for some children to fall into negative situations, and is calling on all parents to play their role.

Police spokesperson Ema Mua has commended the comments made by the Education Minister, as there is a real need to find a solution to the rise in sexual offences against youngsters in the Northern Division.