Accordingly, the Cabinet has granted its approval to prohibit of migration for employment, of mothers having children under the age of five years. In the case of mothers with children with over five years will have to submit an undertaking with a recommendation from a Committee headed by Divisional Secretary to the effect that appropriate arrangements have been made with regard to the children before they could be allowed to leave abroad for the purpose of employment. The report will have to be registered with the Foreign Employment Bureau,
This Committee can include Women Development Officer, Relief Sister, Social Services Officer and Labour Welfare Officer.

According to the Minister Ms Jayasena the imposition of these limitations on migration will ensure the welfare of children who are left alone without the warmth of their mother’s love.

The available statistics and various reports clearly suggest that children of many mothers who migrate, specially for employment to the Middle East and other countries have become helpless and vulnerable, and lack nutrition and health-care. 

It has also been reported that some mothers have migrated to the Middle East leaving behind infants of three months.

On the other hand these mothers also face various problems as they are unable to concentrate on their jobs.  Often, mothers who have small children migrate without making proper arrangements with regard to their children and families; children are left with husbands, mothers or relatives. There have been instances when accidents, even death, caused to the children due to insecure conditions when fathers engaged in occupation.

In this regard this new act will provide an enhanced security and affection to the children which is essential for them in becoming the stakeholders of this country’s future.