Guyanese abroad returning home to access pensions – Pres Ali

Highlighting Guyana’s growing appeal as a place to live and retire, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that increasing numbers of Guyanese in the diaspora are returning home to register for and receive their pensions locally. He made the remarks on Friday last during a Labour Day Brunch hosted at State House, where he outlined that the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Administration remains committed to continuously increased pension. Old Age Pension now stands at $46,000 per month for citizens aged 65 and older. Additionally, pensioners can access a $20,000 per annum transportation grant. “All the Guyanese overseas are paying a ticket to come back home to get registered for that old age pension that is non-contributory,” President Ali disclosed. He emphasised the need to building out an environment where citizens can retire in dignity.
“How we are building our pension system to take care of you when you retire. How we allow you to retire in dignity. How we build infrastructure, retirement homes, hospital, dialysis care, cancer care, diabetes care. How do we build a health infrastructure, recreational facilities, better roads and better transport system to allow you to retire in dignity,” the Head of State explained. He said this is why the Government is placing much emphasis now on developing a care industry. The Government will soon roll out a nationwide community outreach programme to identify ideal areas for its co-investment initiative in care centres, for both the elderly and children. The Government has said it is prepared to offer targeted tax incentives and other forms of support to individuals interested in establishing such centres across the country. Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud has since explained that the initiative will be implemented through a range of flexible models and that the individuals involved in the venture must be trained in care, something which is being offered for free by the Government.