Tabuya calls for probe

MINISTER for Women Lynda Tabuya has directed an investigation into allegations of families receiving social welfare assistance after the intended recipient had died.

In a statement, she said her ministry had received reports of people receiving social welfare assistance they were not entitled to.

“The ministry has also received reports from the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit and the general public, alleging possible abuse of social welfare allowance, particularly our social pension scheme, which is meant for our senior citizens above the age of 65 years,” she said.

“The ministry is very vigilant and is conducting investigations on complaints received and Fijians caught cheating the system will be dealt with by the law.”

Ms Tabuya also requested all Fijians to restrain from abusing Government’s social protection assistance.

“If you are cheating the system, you are not cheating the Government but you are cheating a deserving older person or destitute from receiving what is rightfully theirs.

“In all instances where recipients are now deceased, family members are encouraged to report this so they can be assisted through the Fiji Government’s Life Insurance scheme for funeral services.

“My ministry will continue to work towards strengthening our systems to ensure that the social protection allowances are given to individuals or families that meet the eligibility criteria and are in real need.”

Members of the public with any complaints or knowledge of possible abuse of the social welfare scheme have also been urged to contact the ministry on 3312199.