MSSI will propose the implantation of child protection laws to Council of Ministers

DILI, 20 july 2023 (TATOLI)- The Ministry of Social Solidarity and Inclusion (MSSI) will propose the implementation of the child protection law to council ministers after a discussion of the improvement budget in the National Parliament (NP).

Minister of MSSI, Veronica Das Dores said the implementation of Child Labor law is important, but currently, the Government is prioritizing the discussion on the Ratification budget for the implementation of the programs.

“We will introduce the decree-law on the implantation of Child Protection laws after the approval of the ratification budget by the National Parliament,” Veronica Das Dores told TATOLI in the MSSI office, Caicoli, this thursday.

Previously Joana Camões, Gender, and Child Protection Specialist of World Vision Timor-Leste (WV-TL) also recommended the ninth Constitutional Government to pass a decree law on the implementation of the child protection law in Timor-Leste, to offer protection to every child and youth under pressure and difficult situations.

Camões also added once the decree law of the implementation is approved by the Government, it will pave the way for WVTL to provide information about child protection laws and share it with the public including parents.

The draft Child Protection Act, previously approved by the National Parliament in general, will provide for the promotion of children’s rights and the protection of children at risk and risk, to ensure their well-being and healthy development.

Draft Law Number 29/V (3a) concerning Child Protection was approved with 54 votes in favor, 0 against, and 1 abstention.

Meanwhile, based on the National Child Labor Data for 2006, Timor-Leste recorded a total of 238% of child labor. Of this amount, including Dili by 40%, Aileu by 45%, Ermera by 36%, and Lautem by 35% which reached 37% to 45% and less than 20% for other municipalities it has reached 12.3%.

Journalist: José Belarmino De Sá

Editor: Nelia