Western Region Pensioners threaten demonstration

Sekondi, Jul 3, GNA - Pensioners in the Western Region have threatened to demonstrate against the government and the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) if their 50 per cent pension adjustments are not effected by July 31.

They said the adjustments, which should have been paid in October last year, had not been paid as at June 2004.

Mr. Edward A. Aidoo, First Trustee of the Sekondi District Pensioners Association, said this at the Region's 44th Republic Day get-together at Sekondi, on Thursday.

He said sometime last year, all pensioners were made to fill forms for the adjustments with the assurance that the money would be paid in May 2004.

Mr. Aidoo said the continued delay in the payment of adjustments was having negative effects on them.

Mr. Joseph B. Aidoo, Regional Minister assured the pensioners that immediate action would be taken on the adjustments issue, adding that, all should commend your sacrifices and dedicated services. He said without these sacrifices, most of the country's development efforts would not have been achieved.

The Regional Minister commended them for their dedication to duty, respect for laws and their defence of the country and urged the youth to emulate them.

He said Ghana could earn more international recognition if workers changed their attitude to work.

Mr. Aidoo charged workers to be dedicated and to consult retired staff who have a lot of experience.

The Regional Minister appealed to pensioners to advice the government on issues affecting the nation.

About 100 civil, public servants, lawyers, chiefs, journalists and religious groups attended the ceremony.