Statute Details
- Title: Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules
- Full Title: Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules
- Act Code: WC1961-R2
- Type: Subsidiary Legislation
- Commencement Date: Not specified in the provided text
- Parts: Part I: BOARD OF VISITORS
- Key Sections: Section 2: Definitions; Section 13: Resolutions at any meeting of the Board shall be passed by a majority of votes and in the case of an; Section 14: Meetings of the Board shall be called by the Chairman or the Secretary of the Board as and when
- Related Legislation: Civil Defence Act 1986, Dental Registration Act 1999, Medical Registration Act 1997, Midwives Act 1999
What Is This Legislation About?
The Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules is a piece of subsidiary legislation that provides detailed regulations and guidelines for the administration and management of places of safety for the protection of women and girls in Singapore. This legislation is enacted under the authority of the Women's Charter, which is the primary law governing the rights and protection of women and girls in the country.
The key purpose of this legislation is to ensure that places of safety, where women and girls may be placed for their protection, are properly managed and maintained to a high standard. The Rules cover various aspects of the administration and operation of these places of safety, including the composition and duties of the Board of Visitors, the discharge and aftercare of residents, and the day-to-day management and care of the residents.
Overall, this legislation plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being and rights of vulnerable women and girls in Singapore who may require temporary or long-term placement in a place of safety for their protection.
What Are the Key Provisions?
The Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules are divided into three main parts, each addressing different aspects of the administration and management of places of safety.
Part I: Board of Visitors
This part outlines the composition, tenure, and duties of the Board of Visitors, which is responsible for overseeing the places of safety. The Board is appointed by the Minister and consists of a number of members. Members of the Board are required to visit each place of safety at least once a month to ensure that the health, maintenance, recreation, discipline, training, and education of the girls are satisfactory and that an efficient standard is maintained. The Board is also responsible for sending comments and recommendations regarding the places of safety to the Director-General.
Part II: Discharge Committee
This part outlines the composition and functions of the Discharge Committee, which is responsible for discharging or placing on parole license girls who are in a place of safety. The Director-General may consult the Discharge Committee on matters relating to the discharge or parole of girls. The Discharge Committee is also responsible for providing aftercare services to girls who are released from a place of safety.
Part III: Administration of Places of Safety
This part covers the detailed requirements and procedures for the administration and management of places of safety. It includes provisions on the maximum number of residents, the responsibilities of the superintendent, the maintenance of records, the daily routine and activities of the residents, education and practical training, recreation, correspondence and visits, discipline and punishment, and the provision of medical and dental care.
How Is This Legislation Structured?
The Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules are structured into three main parts, as mentioned above:
- Part I: BOARD OF VISITORS (Sections 3-14)
- Part II: DISCHARGE COMMITTEE (Sections 15-20)
- Part III: ADMINISTRATION OF PLACES OF SAFETY (Sections 21-67)
Each part contains several sections that provide detailed regulations and guidelines on the respective aspects of the administration and management of places of safety.
Who Does This Legislation Apply To?
The Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules apply to the administration and management of places of safety for the protection of women and girls in Singapore. The legislation is primarily concerned with the well-being and rights of women and girls who are placed in these places of safety, either voluntarily or by court order, for their protection.
The legislation also applies to the various stakeholders involved in the operation and oversight of these places of safety, including the Board of Visitors, the Discharge Committee, the superintendent, medical and dental officers, and other staff members.
Why Is This Legislation Important?
The Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules are an important piece of legislation that ensures the proper administration and management of places of safety for the protection of women and girls in Singapore. These places of safety play a crucial role in providing a safe and secure environment for vulnerable women and girls who may be at risk of harm or exploitation.
The detailed regulations and guidelines set out in this legislation help to maintain a high standard of care and support for the residents of these places of safety. This includes ensuring their physical and mental well-being, providing them with education and practical training, and facilitating their eventual discharge and reintegration into the community.
Ultimately, the Women's Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules contribute to the broader goal of protecting the rights and well-being of women and girls in Singapore, and promoting their empowerment and independence.
Related Legislation
- Civil Defence Act 1986
- Dental Registration Act 1999
- Medical Registration Act 1997
- Midwives Act 1999
Source Documents
This article provides an overview of the Women’s Charter (Protection of Women and Girls) Rules for legal research and educational purposes. It does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult the official text for authoritative provisions.