Highlighting the important role played
AS THE National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) observes Senior Citizens’ Week, let us as a nation pause to honour the contribution of those in our most experienced and aged population who not only have made a sterling contribution to the development of our nation, but also have a wealth of history to share with the present and younger generation.
This year, the council is observing Senior Citizens’ week under the theme ‘Forging Our Future: Embracing the Participation, Contribution and Talents of Older Persons’. As a society, we must highlight the important role played by our elderly citizens and seek to engage them in activities.
Indeed, they must be protected. In keeping with the commitment of the Government to establish a comprehensive social protection strategy and to support the broad inclusion of senior citizens in nation building, the National Policy of Senior Citizens is currently under revision. This review is necessary as we continue to recognise the tremendous capacity and resources within this age cohort and align programmes and initiatives to respond to the opportunities and the reality of challenges.
My administration recognises our senior citizens as valuable contributors to nation building. In this regard, the Government must ensure that policy is in place to allow our seniors to enjoy a dignified life. It is for this reason, and others, that the Government continues to ensure that the social safety net includes the elderly to ensure that they can afford such critical amenities as quality basic healthcare regardless of their socio-economic situation.
The Government continues to support efforts by the NCSC, thus ensuring their participation in our development. These efforts include promoting active ageing across generations, encouraging participation of seniors in nation building, and establishing and maintaining programmes to meet the physical, spiritual, and socioeconomic needs of seniors at different stages of the ageing process.
To this end, we remain at the forefront of promoting intergenerational approaches to engaging our elderly citizens.
Best wishes to all seniors and to those who work directly with our aged community. ANDREW HOLNESS Prime Minister