The Internet is breeding paedophiles, according to a New York Rotarian who spoke to Hamilton Rotarians.

Janet DiBenedetta, New York and Bermuda District Governor for the Rotary Club, told Rotarians last week that they must raise awareness about such key issues and take actions.

Several points she brought up were drugs, alcohol, the Internet and HIV.

"We live in a world that is very fast. Though the Internet is a wonderful tool, it is breeding paedophiles,'' she said, telling Rotarians that awareness must extend to the protection of children.

And she asked the Rotarians to raise general awareness about all things that involve the organisation, including public relations.

"Sometimes we forget the things we really do because we just do them. To do your PR (public relations), to tell your friends and to tell your family -- let them know about the projects you think are important.'' "Rotary offers opportunity to many people, to young people, to old -- it is a wonderful thing to be Rotarian. Put your hand out and invite.'' But she also urged the club into action when they get new members -- not just having luncheons but "putting them to work''.

"This club has to be a part of every new Rotarians life. We need to use them and put them too work.'' Meet and greet: Governor Thorold Masefield meets visiting Rotary District Governor Janet DiBenedetto from New York, who paid him a courtesy visit while in Bermuda last week. Also pictured, from left to right, are fellow Rotarians Andrew Caufield, her husband Robert DiBenedetto and Fred Ming.