Calls being made to include people aged 60 years in the social welfare allowance scheme

The government should look into including people aged 60 years in the social welfare allowance scheme in the upcoming National Budget to assist those who do not have a family to look after them. This was highlighted to fijivillage News by 60-year-old Davendra Prasad who resides in Navudi, Seaqaqa on his expectations from the 2024/2025 National Budget. Prasad says with the current cost of living, it is difficult to survive and it would be great if the government could also assist people aged 60 years, who do not have any support.

The current budget caters for people between the ages of 65 to 69 years who receive $115 while those aged 70 and above receive $125.

He says $115 and $125 is not sufficient for senior citizens as the cost of living is high.

The 60-year-old further says he wants the government to continue the fee-free education for children as many students have benefitted from this and it allows parents to look at other needs of their children.

In the 2023/2024 budget, the social pension scheme was allocated $78.2 million.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad will deliver the 2024/2025 National Budget at 10am next Friday.