It was a day for celebration for seniors as on Wednesday, September 21, the revised National Policy for Senior Citizens was presented to the country. The day also marked the official launch of Senior Citizens Week by the Minister of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), Hon. Karl Samuda, which will be observed from September 25 to October 1.

In his address, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Karl Samuda stressed the importance of our seniors. He stated that according to data provided by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) in 2012, 32 percent of all Jamaican households had a member 60 years old and over. He congratulated the board and staff of the NCSC for serving the nation in a “selfless and wonderful manner.” He emphasized that the responsibility for our seniors must be acknowledged by both the private and public sectors. He commented that seniors should live and actively participate in a society that “guarantees their rights, promotes their responsibilities, recognizes their capacities, their capabilities and contribution and facilitates their enjoyment of a life of fulfillment, health and security.” He stressed the need for more healthy relationships between older people and the youth.

Mrs. Grace Duncan, National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) Board Chairman delivered the opening remarks in which she stated that “seniors have paved the way for us” and the revised policy was a signal of commitment by our leaders to provide for and acknowledge the works of our seniors. She encouraged seniors both in attendance and online to continue raising their voices and advocate for their rights.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), Mrs. Colette Roberts-Risden, emphasized the need to protect our elders, especially with regards to income and security. She lauded the government’s efforts in introducing the Social Pension programme to benefit our seniors. In celebration of the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) 46^th Anniversary, she stated that the organisation continuously advocates for the rights of seniors. In the same breath, she encouraged all seniors to register to become a member of the Council as it provides great benefits.

Dr. Wayne Henry, Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), in his address stated that we should celebrate the resilience and contribution of our seniors, especially to community life. He stated that every citizen is responsible for the care of the elderly. Whilst he acknowledged that this can be a great challenge, he stated that continued effort will produce great results.

Ms. Velonique Bowen, Jamaica Festival Queen 2022, echoed Dr. Henry’s sentiments as she challenged herself to be a voice among her peers in dismissing the idea of ageism. As she emphasized that life doesn’t end at 60, she stated that she will make it her mission to encourage persons to empower and include seniors.

CCRP welcomes the Revised National Policy for Senior Citizens and looks forward to the next step which is the legislation to ensure that the care and protection of all seniors are guaranteed.  Senior Citizens Month, which is celebrated in September annually, is being observed under the theme ‘Ageing Jamaica: Epitomizing Resilience and Greatness.’