THE distribution of the 2008 pension books across the 10 administrative Regions is progressing well as pensioners are turning out in large numbers to uplift their document in a hassle-free manner.

Assistant Chief Probation Officer Deendayal Singh, said that there are large turn-outs at every location.  He noted that there are minimal complaints by the pensioners since the Human Services Ministry has put in the new and improved system. 

This will help pensioners who would have had to travel to other areas and waited long hours to be attended to, Singh said.
Pensioners who are ‘shut-in’ will receive their pension book at home.
Pensioners who have not yet received their books are urged to ensure they turn-up on the scheduled date and provide their 2007 books and Identification Card (ID).

Singh is also encouraging pensioners to secure their books because if they are lost or damaged, this may hinder them from receiving pensions on January 2, 2008.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand has been visiting various distribution centres in the country.  She said that she is happy that pensioners are able to receive their books early so that they can acquire their pensions on time.

Pensioners said that they are grateful to the minister for improving the pension system which allows them to receive their books in areas close to them.

Meanwhile, pensioners who receive Guyana Water Inc (GWI) bills are entitled for water assistance paid by the government.  It is advisable that pensioners visit the various GWI outlets to ensure they benefit from the waiver. (GINA)