Over 28 per cent of children were born out of wedlock in 2008 - 1,048 out of 3,721 births (March 10). Just 12 years earlier, the figure was below six per cent. This is a remarkable increase that should make us ask what is happening in our islands. The single mothers I know are doing an excellent job and raising their children in the best way possible in the, sometimes very challenging, circumstances.

However, one may wish to ask what percentage of these births are the result of a considered, conscious, planned, mutually-agreed decision between a young woman and a young man who care and are responsible for their decision and what percentage of these births are the result of use, abuse, exploitation, peer pressure, bullying, force, drink, drugs?

My guess, though I did not carry out any survey, is that a very high percentage are the result of unwanted, unexpected pregnancies, possibly taking place in the modern youth "underworld".

This issue is certainly an area worth investigating, studying and discussing both on Xarabank and at University level. I am sure this situation under its various aspects is of particular interest to both the Church and the state. The natural birth place of a child is with a loving and caring father and mother. Psychologists will tell you that a child needs both. Notice that I have not used the word "family".

During a public presentation a couple of years ago, I recall a leading authority on the family stating that Malta would bear the full impact of a growing number of children born out of wedlock within a few years.

I hope no one will suggest that the solution is simply more sex education, or the condom, for heavens' sake. Values may probably have to be considered as well.