There has been an increase in the disbursement of the Government Pension Plan and other Social Services Grants under the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services.
This was revealed by Finance Minister Colm Imbert during debate on the Finance Variation of Appropriation Bill in the Lower House on Monday.
The Ministry is seeking a $531 million increase to their allocation for the 2021/2022 fiscal year. According to Minister Imbert, several factors contributed to the increase of allocations, one of which is the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He assured that there are systems in place to root out any inefficiencies within the Social Services Ministry.
Meanwhile, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Faris Al-Rawi is seeking an additional $35 million to continue the work of the Judiciary.
Speaking during the Motion to Adopt the Report of the Standing Finance Committee in the House of Representatives on Monday, Mr. Al-Rawi defended the need for the additional allocation, stating the monies will be used to cover contract salaries, rent, and ICT services.
But MP for Princes Town Barry Padarath questioned the $22 million to be allocated to contract workers’ salaries.
Over $574 million was appropriated to three Heads of Expenditure including the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, the Personnel Department, and the Judiciary.
The Bill was passed.