New Child Protection Safeguards Proposed Public Service

COLOMBO (News 1st): Preparations are underway by the government to introduce a new legal requirement aimed at strengthening child protection, with concerns surging over the safety of children in the country. 

The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs has decided to recruit individuals to the public service and positions involving direct contact with children to obtain a certificate confirming that they have not been accused of child-related offences.

The Ministry said the relevant Cabinet paper has already been submitted for approval.

The relevant certification can be obtained from the Police.

The Ministry further said employees in the public service will also be required to renew and submit the certificate when receiving service confirmations and salary increments, confirming that they have not been involved in child-related offences during the relevant period.

The government expects the new legal framework to help prevent crimes and violence against children, while further strengthening child protection measures and promoting greater transparency within the public service.