The Fijian Government’s Bus fare Subsidy that was introduced in 2011 is currently assisting over 46,000 Fijians.
Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Rosy Akbar says the beneficiaries comprise of 44,784 elderly Fijians who are 60 years and above, along with 1,966 persons living with disabilities.
The Ministry has a budget of $150,000 for this initiative that allows elderly persons to pay half the fare and persons living with disabilities are eligible for free bus fares. Minister Akbar said that this initiative reflects on the Fijian Government’s commitment to reach out and improve the lives of underprivileged individuals in Fiji.
“The Fijian government ensures that senior citizens age with care, respect and dignity. The establishment of the National Council for Older Persons (NCOP) and implementation of much awaited programs like Social Pension Scheme (SPS) and Bus Fare Subsidy has been created through the Fijian Government’s commitment to promote an inclusive and enabling environment for senior citizens.
“The Ministry in partnership with Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA) has taken another step forward in advancing the interests of senior citizens in Fiji. The recent launching of “Show You Care” program demonstrates the importance of private public partnership in making a positive impact in the lives of the underprivileged. Such initiatives will go a long way in ensuring that senior members of our communities are treated with respect and fairness while travelling in public transport,” Minister Akbar elaborated.
The Ministry processes all the applications for bus fare subsidy. Those who meet the eligibility criteria can apply through their nearest social welfare office by providing their passport photos and birth certificate. The elderly are given a yellow Identification Card (ID) and for the permanently disabled, they are issued with a red ID card. These ID cards have to be presented to the bus drivers when boarding the bus.
The Ministry also assists over 13,172 senior citizens, including some of those in ageing care homes who receive a monthly Social Pension Scheme (SPS). As of July this year, the eligibility criteria for Social Pension Scheme also includes senior citizens who are 68 years and above, who don’t have access to any form of superannuation funds such as (FNPF, Ex-Servicemen, Aftercare Fund) can qualify for the SPS.
The NCOP Secretariat said that as of May 2015, the total number of older persons in 9 established aged care institutions around the country is 149 and this includes 84 females and 65 males.