Delegation of Sarajevo Canton laid flowers at the memorial to the tragically deceased babies from Bjelave Home

(Patria) - A delegation from the Sarajevo Canton today laid flowers at the memorial and graves of six babies at the "Vlakovo" city cemetery, who died in a fire at the "Bjelave" Children's Home 17 years ago, and marked the anniversary of their tragic deaths by reciting a fatiha and observing a minute of silence.

On the fateful April 22, 2007, the youngest residents of the "Bjelave" Children's Home lost their lives: Medina Bostandžija, Al`dina-Dalal Akmadžić, Amina Čustović, Džemal Šabanović, Faik Krasnići, and Damir Pejanović, while 18 children were seriously and lightly injured.

"It is equally painful even after 17 years to remember a tragedy that deeply affected every person. We do not forget and must not forget, because the care of children must be paramount. The smallest oversight regarding their safety must never happen again," said the Minister for Labour, Social Policy, Displaced Persons and Refugees of the Sarajevo Canton, Enda Pavić Pečenković.

She emphasized that the Ministry she leads, in addition to the previously undertaken activities following the tragic event, continues to invest in infrastructure to ensure the best possible living conditions for the Home's residents.

"The heating system has been reconstructed, and investments are being made in the renovation of the children's living spaces. Several small family homes have also been opened for children without parental care who are in a state of social need, where they receive 24-hour care and adequate conditions that are meticulously managed," added Minister Pavić-Pečenković.

The acting director of the Cantonal Public Institution Home for Children without Parental Care, Amar Ećo, emphasized that this event serves as a warning to everyone and that all future actions must be aimed at protecting children.

Delegations from the City of Sarajevo, the Centar Municipal Council, the Municipality of Centar, and KJKP Pokop also laid flowers at the small graves.