Prioritizing Our Elders: A Call for Improved Benefits in Old Age Pension and Reduce Pension Age the 2024 Budget.

As a nation, it is our duty to ensure that the well-being and dignity of our elders are safeguarded. In light of our abundant oil resources, it is high time that the Ali-led  PPP government takes a bold step towards improving the quality of life for our senior citizens.

In this editorial, I urged the government to increase the old age pension to $100,000 and reduce the pension age from 65 to 60 in the upcoming 2024 budget. Furthermore, since the appointment of Dr. Vindhya Persaud, as the Minister of Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, she hasn’t done anything for our elders, and I hope that she will support such a gesture to uplift our elderly population.

Enhancing the Old Age Pension:

The current pension amount of $33,000 is not enough to help our elders cover even their basic needs. The cost of living has increased significantly over the years, leaving our elders struggling to make ends meet. Therefore, raising the pension amount to $100,000 can provide them with the necessary support to afford their medical expenses, food, and other basic needs.

Our senior citizens have dedicated their lives to building our society/ country, and it is only fair that we prioritise their well-being in return. Currently, the old age pension falls short of providing adequate financial support, making it increasingly difficult for our elders to meet their basic needs. By increasing the pension to $100,000, the government will greatly alleviate their financial burdens and allow them to enjoy a decent standard of living.

Reducing the Pension Age:

Moreover, many individuals retire at the age of 60 and face difficulties in finding adequate employment sources, leading to financial struggles. Reducing the pension age from 65 to 60 can reduce this financial hardship and help our elders live a more comfortable and stress-free life.

Utilising Oil Resources for Social Welfare:

The discovery of oil resources has undoubtedly brought economic prosperity to our nation. However, true progress lies in how we utilise this newfound wealth to uplift the lives of all Guyanese citizens, especially our elderly population. By allocating a portion of the oil revenues towards improving pension benefits, the government can demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of our elders.

Conclusion:

In the 2024 budget, the Ali-led PPP government has a unique opportunity to prioritize our elders and demonstrate their commitment to social welfare. By increasing the old age pension to $100,000 and lowering the pension age from 65 to 60, we can significantly improve the quality of life for our senior citizens.

Let us harness our oil resources not just for economic growth but also for the betterment of those who have contributed so much to our society. I know for a fact that our eagerly await the government’s response and hope that they will act in the best interest of our elders, securing a brighter future for all Guyanese.

Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown