SPONSORING Ministries of the Child and Family Welfare Bill 2016 have been questioned over offices to cater for the proposed legislation.

The social welfare office was made reference to in particular to the Bill.

The Member of Parliament for Small Malaita, Hon Rick Hou raised the concern on the floor of Parliament yesterday in his contribution to the Bill.

“The issue I wish to raise is the question as to where the Social Welfare Division is currently located – that is in the Ministry of Health & Medical Services.

“I think to have the Division in that Ministry is misplaced – it’s not the appropriate Ministry.

“In my view the most appropriate place is the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs,” said Hon Rick Hou.

He added that it is not only that the name spells it out, but more especially when you consider the issues and daily management affairs of the Director and the division as intended under the Bill, there is little health and medical issues, whereas the majority of the activities and programs of the Division are all to do with children and family matters.

“Of course the Ministry of Health should be one of the core partners in the implementation of this law, but I think the principal ministry should be the Ministry for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs.

“Mr Speaker, having said the above, this Bill is intended to address many pertinent issues with children and families, which pertinent to our society.

“It intends to ensure our children and families’ welfare and wellbeing is taken care of. So for that I fully support to the motion and this Bill, and I resume my seat,” said Hon Rick Hou.

The Bill is sponsored by both the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs but was brought to Parliament by the Minister of Health and Medical Services yesterday.