Re-evaluation of the philosophy behind social benefits proposed

A re-evaluation of the philosophy behind social benefits is being proposed by the Social Affairs Committee in a report on fatherlessness it has published for consultation.

The committee said that it seemed there existed benefits which were turning out to be marriage penalties, keeping certain couples from getting married.

This could lead to children not knowing who their father was or with the father not taking part in their life because of the situation.

The report says that short courses could be organised for those who would benefit from social services. This would not be detrimental to children.

It notes that certain single mothers were being given legal advice to register their children as father unknown to deny the father custody. Many fathers, being young and unable to afford custody, would be unable to seek this in Court.

The report recommends professional help to single mothers to help them realise the importance of the father in their child’s life. It says that fathers should also be helped legally to recognise their children.

The full report can be read at: http://www.parliament.gov.mt/socialaffairscommittee .