Report No. 257

"Chapter IIA

Custody, Child Support and Visitation Arrangements

19A. Objectives of the Chapter.

The objectives of this Chapter are to ensure that the welfare of a minor is met by:-

(a) ensuring that the child has the benefit of both parents having a meaningful involvement in his life, to the maximum extent consistent with the welfare of the child;

(b) ensuring that the child receives adequate and proper parenting to help achieve his full potential;

(c) ensuring that the parents fulfil their duties, and meet their responsibilities concerning the care, welfare and development of the child;

(d) giving due consideration to the changing emotional, intellectual and physical needs of the child;

(e) encouraging both the parents to maintain a close and continuing relationship with the child, and to cooperate in and resolve disputes regarding matters affecting the child;

(f) recognising that the child has the right to know and be cared for by both the parents, regardless of whether the parents are married, separated, or unmarried; and

(g) protecting the child from physical or psychological harm or from being subjected to, or exposed to, any abuse, neglect or family violence.