10
15.
As a safeguard for future cases, the Director of
Social Welfare has proposed that a provision should be
inserted to require a child's parent or guardian to be given
advance notice of a court hearing and to be permitted to
address the court.
In practice this is invariably done if the
whereabouts of the parent or guardian is known, but a
statutory provision of this kind would be seen to protect the
rights of parents and guardians.
The UMELCO Panel also feel
that this proposal should be seriously considered.
16.
The Government has carefully considered the reviews
conducted by the Director of Social Welfare and the Director
of Medical and Health Services and accepts the conclusions
which they have reached. Our social workers provide the
community with competent and dedicated service, despite having
a heavy case-load. They often have to take difficult
decisions, as in the present case. Nor are they always in a
position to defend their actions publicly, because of the need
to maintain confidentiality. I believe that the Director and
her staff deserve our trust in their integrity and our respect for their professional judgement.
17.
Finally, Sir, I should like to say a few words about
the present condition of Ah-nui and Madam Wong, and about
their future prospects. A case conference between the various
professionals concerned with their treatment and care was held
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.