Dear Editor,
I have been asked to write this letter in the hope that NIS would be moved to act accordingly.
Currently, citizens who receive a monthly Old Age Pension (OAP) can collect the same from the first business day in each month. Also, those collecting an NIS pension (many times the same OAP individuals) can only do so from the first Monday of each new month.
This existing NIS payment arrangement leads to several issues for recipients.
First, it requires two round trips to collect OAP and NIS pensions because of the different payment dates. This is costly for people who can ill-afford the expense. Second, it is inconvenient in terms of the additional expenditure of time. Third, it is burdensome for those who are not in the best of health. Last, there is the additional concern of those who are subjected to the rigours of public transportation.
In the circumstances, it is hoped that NIS management would be kind enough to consider this appeal, made on behalf of others, to shift its standing payment practice from the first Monday of each month to the first business day of the month. Such action would be most helpful and much appreciated. It would make a difference for many.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall
