Senior Citizens Foundation Lautoka Branch President Pusp Raj said the increase in the government pension and AfterCare payment was a good gesture that needed to continue for a longer period to assist recipients.

The Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed- Khaiyum confirmed during the 2022-2023 National Budget announcement on July 15 that recipients would receive $180 over six months.

“To assist Pensioners with the current high inflation environment, all existing social welfare, Government pension and After- Care Fund recipients will receive a payment of $180 over a six-month period,” he said.

“It is expected that around 100,000 Fijians will benefit from this initiative. Similarly, to the cash support provided to vulnerable families, it is based on the assistance of $30 a month for the first six months.”

A budget of $100,000 has been allocated to support vulnerable women and men that are psycho- logically challenged and are forced to be on the street due to unacceptance back into their community or families.

This allocation is also responsible for empowering and protecting Persons with Disabilities and the safety and care of older persons in Fiji.

Mr Raj said the Senior Citizens Foundation Lautoka Branch had a total of 1,900 members who initially received $100 .

“It is a good gesture but it will be wise to have it continued for the rest of their lives or maybe for a couple of years,” he said.

“Nowadays the price of food has gone up so $100 cannot afford groceries and some of them sacrifice for their children and grandchildren but they have never complained even though most of them are hand to mouth.”.

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