A new program aimed at strengthening the welfare of families and protecting children of migrant workers is scheduled to commence at Divisional Secretariat (DS) level from 1 October.The Integrated Systematic Approach for the Family Development of Migrant Workers (InSa) Project was discussed at a recent meeting of the Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, chaired by attorney Lakmali Hemachandra.

The program  to be implemented by the Foreign Employment Ministry, will focus on developing family plans covering long-term financial management, child health and protection, employment training, and small business and export development.The Committee stressed the need for a formal plan for the care, protection and education of children aged two to 18 when their mothers migrate overseas. It also called for attention to mothers with children below two years, in accordance with existing legal and administrative procedures.Child Rights Promotion Officers will provide interventions before the parent’s departure, while the parent is overseas and after the family’s return. Their responsibilities will include ensuring alternative care plans are implemented, identifying risks, preparing special care plans and providing psychosocial support to returning families.“InSa Committees” are to be established at DS level under the Assistant Divisional Secretary, with the participation of Child Rights Promotion Officers, Early Childhood Development Officers and other relevant field officers.

The Committee also proposed a memorandum of understanding between the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment and the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs on child protection activities. It stressed the importance of all workers leaving for foreign employment registering with the Bureau, noting that informal departures, including on tourist visas, could make welfare interventions difficult due to a lack of official data.

The program’s progress will be monitored at District level through District Secretaries.