Retirement Pension: "This reform was not implemented abruptly," says the Prime Minister

The Prime Minister, Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, criticized the "demagoguery" surrounding the issue of retirement pensions. He defended the reform initiated by his government during an official ceremony marking the International Day of Older Persons, held on Wednesday, October 7, at the J&J Auditorium in Phoenix. This day was celebrated on October 1.

"This reform was not implemented abruptly, but gradually," asserted the Prime Minister.

The head of government emphasized the need to ensure the viability of the system, while reminding everyone of the financial burden posed by universal pensions and social benefits.

In the same vein, he announced the upcoming introduction of a law aimed at protecting the elderly from abuse and assaults.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Paul Bérenger, stated, "Since I turned 60, I decided not to take the old-age pension. I do not need it. Let it go to those who truly need it..." He praised the contributions of seniors to society while calling for collective responsibility. "We must think long-term, fifty years ahead, and build a sustainable system," he added.

Paul Bérenger also acknowledged that the current economic context requires caution: "We are compelled to be careful," he said.

On his part, the Minister of Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity, Ashok Subron, clarified that retirees traveling abroad for medical treatments will not have their pensions suspended. He also announced a gradual increase in the Carers Allowance.

Ashok Subron strongly criticized the previous MSM regime, accusing it of having "used our elders as a stepping stone to win elections."