Ng Ling Ling on Family Justice Reform Bill

Divorce rates are still on the rise in Singapore and couples do need help to cope with the break-up of their marriage and move on with their lives, especially if children are involved. MP Ng Ling Ling said this in Parliament on Monday (May 8) as she welcomed changes proposed in the Family Justice Reform Bill. She raised two concerns. First, applicants have to apply online for the enhanced Maintenance Enforcement Process but some may face difficulties doing so. She asked if the authorities could identify vulnerable individuals such as low-income single parents or divorcees with special needs or disabilities who need help and possibly empower social workers to act on their behalf. Second, Ms Ng said despite stricter measures such as Show-Payment Orders and possible jail time if this is breached, there may be cases where respondents continue to defy maintenance orders for months. She asked what powers the court has to ensure that orders are fully enforced within a reasonable stipulated time to reduce hardship for applicants who need the maintenance.