You should know that climate change is an issue that is not being properly addressed in our schools and that children should know about more.   When I did a presentation on deforestation I was shocked that people did not know about all the deforestation that is happening here in Australia.   The reason why we protested was because the government is caring more about taxes and not about global warming.   PS There is nothing wrong with same gender families.

I write to challenge the attitude of Helen Leach in her letter (Climate change rallies “should alarm parents”, Bendigo Advertiser, December 4). As a grandfather and proud parent of a teacher I support the right of children to take a part in decision making.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the child which values that principal. They are citizens and are involved in discussions of a political nature in their studies.  Activism and learning are complimentary, not competing, ways of building young people’s skills. The fact that their protests have upset people like Prime Minister Morrison and Ms Leach shows how much their activism is having an impact. I view these protests as a cause of celebration, not alarm. A sign that our democracy is strong.

Ivan Kitt (Clutching at Straws, Bendigo Advertiser, December 6) merely proves my point when he says that students are “learning” about it (whatever “it” may be).   That’s my concern!  Whether it’s climate change or gender fluid theories, it’s “the teachers” who have direct contact with their students.  I agree that the education department have a lot to answer for, but someone is delivering the message and that someone seemed, this week, to be teachers –  either kindergarten or primary and secondary school.

What exactly do the students want the Prime Minister to do? The head scientist has said that if we stopped all carbon emissions in Australia tomorrow it wouldn’t have the slightest effect on global temperatures.

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Yes, I have been concerned for a long while and my past Letter to the Editor would indicate that concern  – Safe Schools Coalition gender program for example. This week demonstrated that other debatable and contentious issues are being fed to young minds without qualification.

As for being a climate change sceptic: any study of history and science  shows the climate changes, but the causes are many.  Anthropogenic change is a matter for debate –  even among real scientists, but the many students rallying this week did not demonstrate an openness to debate.  In fact, by their abusive and rude comments they showed a lack of convincing argument.

So, if Mr Kitt, or the students, expect the federal government to stop all emissions, should they start with culling the animals, put cars off the road, or turn off electricity and destroy the economy and quality of life –  a quality they have come to expect?

Letters must carry the name, full address and  telephone number of the author. The writer’s name and suburb/town will be published. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters which are deemed inappropriate will not be published.Send letters to Bendigo Advertiser, PO Box 61, Bendigo 3552 or at bendigoadvertiser.com.au

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