Noting the importance of a well-coordinated approach to identifying the root causes of vulnerability, the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services (MSDFS) distributed Letters of Appointment to the Steering Committee that will oversee the establishment and operationalisation of the National Register of Vulnerable Persons (NRVP).
The NRVP is intended to be a cutting-edge computerised database that will be used to collect, store, and process vital information on vulnerable persons on a single platform. It forms part of the policy and research agenda for the MSDFS aimed at addressing critical policy gaps in the Ministry as well as ensuring that decision-making is data-driven.
Members were presented with their official Letters of Appointment by Minister of Social Development and Family Services, Senator the Honourable Donna Cox during a brief distribution ceremony held at the Ministry’s Head Office in Port of Spain, today, Tuesday 26th July 2022.
During her brief address, Minister Cox told attendees that today’s appointments represent a significant milestone in the Ministry’s continued efforts to achieving the national strategic goals outlined in the National Development Strategy (2016-2030)/ (Vision 2030). It also aligns with a number of global strategic plans, such as the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which have a direct impact on the social sector since they address critical issues affecting the weak and disadvantaged in society, said the Minister.
Minister Cox further stated that the NVRP is anticipated to more accurately match vulnerable citizens with the services they need to transition them out of their immediate crisis, and through this mechanism, prevent repeat applicants under the country’s social protection system. According to Minister Cox, “If we can successfully develop and fully execute the Register, we may very well usher in a new era, marked by the end of generational social welfare dependents, across our nation. At least, this is our hope.”
The nine-member Steering Committee will have the responsibility of providing oversight, technical advice, and operational support to facilitate the successful implementation of the National Vulnerable Persons’ Register. The Committee comprises the following persons:
· Mr. Seon Raymond – Ministry of Social Development and Family Services
· Ms. Alicia Bethel-Allen – Ministry of Youth Development and National Service
· Ms. Sharon King – Ministry of Education
· Mr. Anthony Ganess – Ministry of Health
· Mr. Carlisle Mc Kay – Ministry of Planning and Development
· Mrs. Gwyneth Morris-Alexander – Ministry of Sport and Community Development
· Mr. Anish Roopnarinesingh – Ministry of Digital Transformation
· Ms. Jose Ann Hackett – Tobago House of Assembly (THA)
· Ms. Dionne Guischard – Families in Action