The National Council of Older Persons will be reinstated to improve inclusion, protection, health, and an enabling environment for older individuals. This initiative was highlighted by Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation Sashi Kiran during the Budget Debate in Parliament on Monday.
“According to the Fiji population census in 2017, more than 10 percent of Fijians were aged 60 years or more, so more than 90,000 people,” said Ms. Kiran. “Many of them face issues such as poor physical access, health, disability, abuse, and neglect. They need an advocacy and policy platform.”
“In 2012, the National Council of Older Persons Act was approved and in 2013 the council was appointed. However, no resources were allocated to help with the functioning of the council,” she explained. “We are currently working on recruiting the relevant personnel to help in establishing the council to perform the roles and responsibilities already determined.”
Ms. Kiran also mentioned the establishment of district committees for elderly persons. “These committees will create an inclusive platform and also champion the needs of older persons within the communities.”
This year, the ministry conducted four divisional consultations as well as a national general assembly for older persons. According to Ms. Kiran, the discussions focused on inclusion, protection, health, and an enabling environment for older individuals.