Minister Akbar clarifies social pension scheme eligibility

THE Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Rosy Akbar has clarified that the Government’s Social Pension Scheme was for senior citizens over 65 years of age, who do not have superannuation.

Minister Akbar said that this category includes subsistence farmers and those in the informal sector without regular income support, who will continue to be eligible for the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation’s Social Pension Scheme (SPS).

She also clarified that senior citizens who have farmed all their lives and have never paid Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) or any superannuation allowances are eligible for this Social Pension Scheme.

As we recognise their long term contribution to the Fijian economy, their families and the nation of Fiji.

Minister Akbar mentioned that those recipients intending to apply for the assistance will be expected to meet the criteria in order to qualify for the program.

“The social pension forms are currently available in all the Social Welfare District offices. These forms need to be certified by a community leader or a senior civil servant and applicants will also need to provide their birth certificate for identification. This information ensures that payments are made to the correct recipients needing support”.

Monthly payments are made to the client’s bank account or through MPAISA (as nominated).

Minister Akbar said the monthly allowance of $100 provided under the Social Pension Scheme (SPS) will be maintained, with the eligibility age remaining at 65 years.

“The introduction of the Social Pension Scheme in 2013 and the progressive reduction of the eligibility age from 70 to 65yrs, and the increase of the allowance from $30 per month to $50 in the past years, and to $100 since 2017, are evidence of the Bainimarama Government’s commitment to the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA) and to the senior citizens of Fiji”.

The MWCPA will establish the National Council for Older Persons as a statutory body, to advocate and support the rights of older person in Fiji.

“We remain committed to honouring, respecting and supporting the dignity of older persons in Fiji,” Minister Akbar said.