Public Assistance List to be reviewed to ensure most vulnerable benefits

…as Poor Law Commission gets new board

The Board of Directors of the Poor Law Commission, which oversees public assistance for the vulnerable, will be reviewing the existing list to ensure the “most in need” individuals benefit from the relief programme.
There are approximately 12,000 persons on the Public Assistance list.

The newly installed board, chaired by Amanda Richards and includes Deputy Chairman, Keeran Persaud and members Janet Ann Geer, Raymon Cummings, Alison Barkie, Gomatie Narine, Dr. Josh Kanhai, Peter Persaud, Diana Kaulessar O’Brien and Beverly Clenkian, met with Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr.Vindiya Persaud on Tuesday.
The Board has committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable benefit from the assistance. The Public Assistance List will be reviewed to ensure the process is not exploited and the “most vulnerable” are given the assistance “they so badly need.” Backlogged cases will also be addressed.

Additionally, the Board will refer beneficiaries to the Ministry’s skills training programmes to help them to become financially independent, and benefit from employment opportunities.

Chairman of the Board, Amanda Richards said referrals will be made to the Ministry’s Garment and Accessories Cottage Initiative that has so far gainfully employed over 100 individuals.
The members of the Commission will serve for a period of three years with effect from November 30, 2020.