Hundreds of formerly disenfranchised Government Auxiliary Employees(GAEs) will finally be able to enjoy the security of a retirement pension come Thursday.
Early on in his administration, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew made the commitment that his administration would ensure that thousands of security personnel, crossing guards, sanitation staff, drivers and others will receive a pension after providing years of committed service to their country.
This classification of workers, who are often a part of the country’s most vulnerable demographic, according to the prime minister, were “abandoned” by the ousted Dr. Timothy Harris-led coalition government.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Drew said during a media appearance that the Harris government chose to use a method of calculating gratuity payments to GAEs which was unfavourable to GAEs. He further asserted that the under Dr. Harris, GAE gratuity payments were reduced by more than 66 percent. This meant that GAEs were receiving, on average, only $33.33 of every $100.00 which they had been receiving prior to 2021.
“These are the people who work for the least in the system. Those who need it the most were hurt the most. If people care about people, how can you do that to them?” Dr. Drew asked.
Come 25th July, 2024, however, this wong will be made right. Qualified, former GAEs who have rendered a minimum of 15 years of service, and who would have retired after 18th May, 2012 will begin receiving a monthly pension.
Those persons who have attained the age of 62 will immediately begin receiving a monthly pension. Those who are not yet 62, but qualify, will begin receiving a pension once they do.
Should a qualified GAE pass away before attaining the age of 62, their beneficiary will receive the equivalent of one year’s pension.
“Their hard work should be compensated, and this is what this administration is about,” said Prime Minister Drew. “We have triggered the law and their pension will start, and so we’ll back-pay them to January 2024 because the commitment was made for 2024.
“So, hundreds are going to benefit now, and we have a few thousand, who over time, will benefit.”
Meanwhile, GAEs who are uncertain about their status, or who meet the qualifications but did not receive a notification, are being encouraged to complete pension query forms which are available at Government Headquarters and the Accountant General’s Department.
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