SRI LANKA: Social Security Schemes, a timely measure, says PM

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (Sunday Observer), April 6, 2008: Timely steps taken by the Social Security Board of the Ministry of Social Services and Social Welfare in implementing the Pension and Social Security Benefit schemes have earned plaudits from Sri Lanka's Prime Minister. Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake was guest of honour at a recent ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat to honour officials who contributed to the enrolement of members for schemes launched by the social security boad. These schemes also ensure social security of the people in their old age, he added. The Pension Scheme for employees in the informal sector will ensure their future social security, he added. Pension schemes are of extreme importance to a country like Sri Lanka with a fast growing elderly population, he noted. He commended the Minister of Social Services and Social Welfare Douglas Devananda for his services to the people. The Social Security Board established in 1996 had accomplished the desired objectives thanks to the exemplary performance of duties by its officials who were being honoured on that day. Devananda, speaking at the occasion, pointed out that Sri Lankan Society had a long history of taking care of their family members, especially elders, in social security by the extended family system. Taking responsibilities was the norm of our forefathers for ensuring a better life to their children in future, he said. “The extended family system is being shattered due to globalization and urbanization and governments are burdened with more responsibilities to ensure that citizens enjoy political, economical, social and cultural rights without any discrimination in a free and healthy environment. It was announced that over 250,000 people had joined various pension schemes and out of them 3,741 members were now receiving their monthly pensions. Based on news report in Sunday Observer, April 6, 2008. Copyright © 2007 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.