Ken Averre was speaking yesterday at a public forum organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

"Ratifying a treaty is not enough" Mr Averre said. "We need to have the necessary legislative provisions in order for it to have an effect on our people"

Mr Averre went on to say that Solomon Islanders deserve more. "The issue of treaty ratification, or human rights for that matter, is an issue for everyone and it should be on everyone's agenda"

"I just found out that our government has signed international documents that should safeguard the rights of our women and children" a participant said. "It is unfortunate that the government has not effectively involved the public when signing such treaties"