Here’s a summary of the key points from “The Sierra Leone Council for Postgraduate Colleges of Health Specialties Act, 2016”:
Title and Purpose:
The act establishes the Sierra Leone Council for Postgraduate Colleges of Health Specialties to oversee and coordinate the training of postgraduate health specialists.
Establishment of the Council:
The Council is established as a body corporate with perpetual succession.
It has the capacity to acquire, hold, and dispose of property, and can sue and be sued.
The Council has a common seal for authentication of documents.
Composition of the Council:
The Council consists of various members including a Fellow of a postgraduate college of health specialists (Chairman), Presidents and Registrars of postgraduate colleges, representatives from the Ministry of Health, Tertiary Education Commission, Financial Secretary, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, and other professionals.
The Chairman and members appointed by the President serve a three-year term and are eligible for reappointment.
Meetings of the Council:
The Council meets at least once every three months, with the Chairman presiding.
A minimum of seven members constitutes a quorum.
The Council may co-opt individuals to attend meetings but without voting rights.
The Council regulates its own procedure.
Disclosure of Interest and Misconduct:
Members must disclose any interest in matters under consideration and refrain from participating in related deliberations.
Failure to comply constitutes misconduct and may result in removal from the Council.
Immunity and Liability:
Members of the Council have immunity from legal action for acts performed in good faith within their functions.
Members are not personally liable for Council debts or obligations.
Committees:
The Council may appoint committees to perform specific functions, including an audit committee.
Remuneration and Expenses:
Chairman and Council members receive remuneration, fees, and allowances approved by the Minister.
Co-opted individuals also receive remuneration and expenses reimbursement.
Filling of Vacancies:
Vacancies due to death, resignation, or prolonged absence are filled by election or appointment for the remaining term.
Objects and Functions:
The Council’s main objective is to promote specialist education and training in various health specialties, including medicine, dentistry, nursing, midwifery, and pharmacy.
These points encapsulate the main provisions of the act, covering its establishment, composition, meetings, ethical standards, immunity, committees, financial matters, vacancy filling, and objectives.