Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says the government is working on improving facilities and protections for older persons, including plans for a new facility in Lautoka and work relating to the Golden Age Home in Suva.
Kiran says they have been able to do quite a lot in the area of ageing and are working on a National Ageing Policy.
The Minister says the existing facilities were very run down and they are pleased that this area has been addressed in the budget.
Kiran says they are finalising the National Ageing Policy and will then work on laws to protect older persons.
She also says that for the first time, there is a budget allocation for shelter support.
Kiran says while the government already funds the Crisis Centre for the crisis helpline, there is now also a budget line to provide shelter support.
She says structured programmes are being developed for older persons, women and children in partnership with other donors, including a major pilot programme focused on ICT and women’s literacy in digital spaces.
Kiran adds that a helpline has also been launched to allow social protection beneficiaries to reach the Ministry more quickly and receive faster support.
She says the Ministry is overall very happy with the budget, considering the current constraints, and is still hoping to construct better facilities for older persons and children, as well as shelters for women.
Kiran earlier reminded that caring for elderly loved ones is first and foremost a family and community responsibility, while Government assistance plays an important supporting role.
