More clarity needed on LPA dual donee process

I recently submitted my Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) application, despite some misgivings. The application form could have been simpler, with fewer pages, and the costs charged by the certificate issuer could have been cheaper.

I used a general practitioner who was accredited recently, and he charged S$90, compared with the S$200 asked by approved issuers in 2014 (“Cost of cert issuance for Lasting Power of Attorney is a hindrance”; Nov 14).

In opting for my two donees to act jointly, my main consideration was to eliminate misdemeanour and abuse of power. The other option would have allowed one donee to act without consulting the other, yet would be binding on the latter.

We live in a globalised world, however, and as my young donees’ careers grow, they may be required to travel widely and frequently. What happens if only one donee is in Singapore when I need help?

Would the Office of the Public Guardian allow the second donee’s consent or decision to be communicated via Skype?

Or why not allow the replacement donee in Singapore to take over the duties of the second donee who is away?

The current provision allows the replacement donee to act only in the event of a donee’s inability to act on my behalf owing to his mental health and other stated issues.

I wonder whether people have been held back from applying for the LPA by the same concerns I have.