Region 2 pensioners left standing for lengthy periods to collect pension books

Dear Editor,

Hundreds of pensioners were faced with an unacceptable situation when they turned up last Monday, (November 26) at the Amerindian Hostel in Suddie to collect their pension books for next year, with me being a victim as well.

While adequate space was available on the bottom flat to provide seating accommodation for as many as 100 persons, there were only 15 chairs belonging to the hostel available, and distribution lasted for about five hours having commenced around 9 am.

The system for distribution could not have been better, but it was very sad to witness the discomfort and suffering endured before pensioners got their books.

Some of them had to remain standing holding on to their walking sticks, with the feeble ones being comforted by family members until they could get a seat.

Persons also leant against an inside wall whilst some sat on the front concrete stairway blocking the entrance to the upper flat, as well as under trees in the shady sections of the compound.

Two weeks ago it was reported in the press that distribution was fixed for Monday, November 26, and so there was ample time for enough seating to be provided for the elderly. In the past the Region 2 administration was entrusted with the responsibility of providing seating, and presumably this year also, so its neglect can only be seen as affront to senior citizens who deserve better treatment.

Pensioners should be given the same treatment as any other human being.

The intervention of the subject Minister would be useful to ensure that there is no recurrence and that  pensioners are treated in the fit and proper manner which they deserve.

Yours faithfully,
Baliram Persaud