Panel to look into maintenance-related issues

SINGAPORE — In its next phase of work, the Committee for Family Justice will be looking into maintenance-related issues such as introducing gender-neutral maintenance, considering new methods for calculating maintenance, enforcement and variation of maintenance, as well as allowing divorces without requiring proof of wrongdoing by either party.

These issues were among those raised by the public based on feedback received during a public consultation exercise held between May and last month. In September 2011, measures were introduced to enhance the enforcement of maintenance orders such as allowing individuals to file complaints against defaults in payment through video conferencing at the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO) or the Tampines Family Service Centre.

Previously, complaints could only be filed in person at the Family Court. Courts were also empowered to impose additional penalties or sanctions on defaulters.

Sembawang GRC Member of Parliament Ellen Lee, who sits on the committee, said enforcement remained problematic. “The committee feels that perhaps we really need more time to look into it,” said the lawyer.

Ms Tan Siew Kim, a partner at RHTLaw TaylorWessing, added: “Despite the good work done with maintenance reforms, there is still room (for improvement) as there are still errant husbands who need to be hauled to court monthly.”

On gender-neutral maintenance, Ms Tan noted cases “where men are saddled with the children and earn less”. “In such cases, maybe maintenance should be ordered to assist (the men),” she said. LAURA PHILOMIN