Government continues to look into all avenues to assist all generations including the elderly persons of Fiji.
The Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation organised the Senior Citizens Day this morning; an annual celebrated event promoting the rights but at the same time challenges faced by the elderly.
Their contribution to nation building was the message highlighted to elderly persons by chief guest Director Social Welfare, Rupeni Fatiaki at celebrations organised by the ministry in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, Nasinu.
“Your presence, indicates your willingness to be part of the national agenda to acknowledge and work together towards addressing sustainable solutions to a society that will need to improve its service delivery for older persons in Fiji,” Mr Fatiaki said.
“The challenge for employment, challenge for sustainable health services, challenge for careers and the challenge of the world around us (most cities, modes of transport and buildings not adapted to a population with reduced mobility).”
He reiterated governments efforts to implementing the relevant plans, services and programs to assist in finding out where the gaps are in service delivery and resolving issues surrounding older persons.
“It is not an easy task because it requires commitment from all sectors of our society, including communities, faith based organisations, private sector, civil society and the government,” Mr Fatiaki said
Mr Fatiaki commended the tireless contributions and dedication that the elderly have contributed accordingly to our country.
The establishment of the National Council of Older Persons Decree (2012) is the advisory body to government on all issues and concerns of Older Persons in Fiji.
Mr Fatiaki urged the elderly to form associations in their communities and to link up with the council which will therefore undertake structured approaches to address issues.
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