Distribution of the 2009 old age pension books is moving apace in Essequibo with 50% already handed out.
“Essequibo really makes me happy. It’s a good example for the rest of the country,” Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand said during a visit to the Regional Democratic Council compound at Anna Regina. “We started distribution on November 12, today is the 21st and in eight days Essequibo, Region Two has finished 50 percent of its distribution. This is really good, and I am very pleased,” the Government Information Agency (GINA) quoted the minister as saying.
Pensioners indicated that they were happy with the early programme of receiving pension books and that the distribution centres are closer to their homes.
Chinta Persaud, a 72-year-old pensioner from Henrietta Housing Scheme told GINA, “Last year we got the pension book early too, but the years before we had a large crowd and the people had to push and tug before they get the book. Now it’s easier, this morning as soon as I come in it didn’t take me three minutes to get the new pension book.”
Pensioners also said they were pleased that the dates, time and place of distribution were advertised. “I think that’s why we saw that kind of turnout, additionally the offices have been very organised in their distribution. Essequibo, not only this year, but over the years has been doing well,” the minister said. “I expect by the end of the year all the books will be distributed, but certainly the ministry would have provided the opportunity for persons to receive their books,” she added.
Region Two Probation and Social Services Officer Ricardo Banwarie noted that the pensioners have been coming out in large numbers. About 1,600 pensioners have already uplifted their books in the region and officers are set to distribute books in the Pomeroon and the lake areas.
According to GINA, the minister said improvements can be made at some distribution sites to lessen the fatigue on pensioners. She said by next year improvements will be made. Manickchand also issued a stern warning to persons other than pensioners who have been collecting money, advising that they will be put before the court.
Meanwhile, pensioners have said that they are pleased with the service at the post offices; they are receiving their money and not being turned away. Manickchand said, “We will continue to do all we can to make sure that people are served… in a timely manner.”
GINA said everyday for the next five weeks; from 9am to 4pm the ministry’s staff will be visiting communities, at advertised sites, to distribute pension books. The 2009 pension books being distributed do not have amounts stamped on them in order to allow the Ministry of Finance “the longest possible period to review the economy and its progress to see if there can be an increase in pension.” The sum to be distributed next year will be announced in December.