2007 pension books ready for some regions
Stabroeknews
November 10, 2006
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has begun delivering pension books for next year.
A press release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said the process began Tuesday and it is the first time in two decades that the books have been distributed before the start of the new year. Pensioners in Regions Two, Three, Five and Six will receive their books over the next two weeks while those in the other regions will get theirs as soon as the documents are printed.
Permanent Secretary at the ministry Trevor Thomas said the books will be distributed in the least populated areas first because of the remoteness of some communities and the availability of resources. GINA said over the years the ministry has faced difficulties in delivering the books because of the location of some of the centres and the long queues.
Last year the ministry had sought to develop catchment areas to make distribution easier. The ministry selects public or private buildings closest to pensioners to distribute the books. This year the ministry is hoping that with the addition of more catchment areas and a fully computerised system the process will run smoothly.
GINA said the pension grant was increased from $400 in 1992 to $3,500 in 2006 with plans for a five per cent increase in 2007. The ministry also provides public assistance to more than 14,000 persons and has spent more than $1.5B to assist persons living under difficult circumstances.