Govt proposes pre-marriage programme for at-risk couples to address thalassemia

The government has proposed amendments to existing legislation that would make it mandatory for individuals identified as being at risk of having children with thalassemia to participate in a specific programme before marriage.

The amendment was submitted to Parliament by Ahmed Naseer, Member of Parliament representing the People's National Congress (PNC), on behalf of the government.

Currently, couples who are both carriers of the thalassemia gene are not required by law to complete a premarital programme. Under the proposed amendment, couples intending to marry in the Maldives must submit thalassemia screening results to the Registrar of Marriages. If both individuals are identified as carriers, the marriage may only proceed after they complete a designated programme.

The content and requirements of the programme will be outlined in a regulation to be introduced within one month after the bill is passed and published in the government gazette. This regulation will define who must undergo the programme and what topics or procedures it must include.

The bill also includes amendments concerning the governance of the Thalassemia Centre, including revisions to the appointment process and responsibilities of its Director.

At present, the Director is appointed by the Civil Service Commission without requiring input from the relevant minister. The existing criteria specify experience in management and thalassemia, and the position functions under the general direction of the minister.

Under the proposed changes, the Director would be appointed by the Civil Service Commission based on a recommendation from the Minister of Health. The term would be set at five years. The candidate must hold a qualification at Level 8 or 9 in a management field and have at least ten years of experience in the health sector, including four years in a management role.

The Director would report directly to the minister and carry out responsibilities in accordance with ministerial advice and guidance.