To date some 8128 pensioners are benefiting from the 50% hike in the electricity subsidy announced in this year’s budget, GINA said yesterday.
It said that according to figures released by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, those benefiting include pensioners from Regions, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
In Region 2, a total of 1022 persons are benefiting, Region 3, 1104, Region 4, 3421, Region 5, 780, Region 6, 1681 and Region 7, 120, making a total of 8128 pensioners.
GINA noted that a total of $300M was allocated in the budget for this programme which was implemented in 2013 and saw pensioners receiving an annual contribution of $20,000 once they were customers of the Guyana Power and Light Company.
This year the value of this electricity assistance programme rose to $30,000 per annum for each eligible beneficiary.
In addition, GINA noted that this year’s old age pension was increased by 5 percent with effect from May 1, 2014 to $13,125 monthly.
There has been an increase in the number of persons reaching the age of 65 and becoming eligible for old age pension.
According to the Ministry of Human Services, 3000 more persons are now eligible for pension, thus far for 2014.
