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The Council of the National Association of Pensioners considers the 2005 Budget a step in the right direction for a solution of the structural deficit.
As is also the case for other sectors of society, pensioners have to make sacrifices. While it is accepted that these have to be borne by all, it is pertinent to mention the unhappy position of those pensioners whose pension has been frozen for years except for the flat rate cost of living increase paid to pensioners.
The Association is disappointed at the fact, that declarations in favour of consultation have not been applied, where reasonable claims were made for pensioners.
It has been noted that the cost of living increase of Lm1.17 per week for pensioners will effectively be eroded, by more than a third, because of the surcharge on the rate of the Water and Electricity. This, not to mention the added expense for the elderly, in consequences of the increase in the price of kerosene. The only source of satisfaction is that bus fares for pensioners are not being increased.
J. Scicluna, MRSH
General Secretary
A J Tabone
President
National Association of Pensioners
Valletta
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