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WESTERN CAPE MEC OF SOCIAL SERVICES AND POVERTY RELIEF, DAVID MALATSI, MEETS WITH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE WESTERN CAPE PENSIONERS FORUM
The MEC of Social Services and Poverty Relief yesterday had a constructive meeting with the executive committee of the Western Cape Pensioners Forum.
The Forum was given the opportunity to hand to the MEC a list of grievances they have as far as the payment of pensions and other service delivery issues are concerned.
Issues raised included problem of sick pensioners who cannot personally collect their pensions from normal pay points as well as their quest for the abolition of, or the fair application of the means test with the MEC
MEC David Malatsi responded, "I would like you to know that you have an open door to my office and that I welcome your attitude to consult me on matters like these. It is of utmost importance that these matters are immediately attended to. We have taken notice of the report on the abuse, neglect and ill-treatment of older persons issued by the national Minister of Social Development and must make sure that as far as the benefits and grants to these people are concerned, they receive what is rightfully theirs. Not paying them on time and what they should rightfully receive also amounts to abuse and ill-treatment."
The MEC undertook to refer the matter about the means test to the Chairperson of the Committee on Social Security for immediate attention.
He has also confirmed the availability of 0800 number, 0800 220 250, in event of any problems, complaints or any other matters concerning the department.
Contact: Derick de Villiers on 083 556 6165/ 021 483 5457
Issued by; Office of the MEC for Social Services And Poverty Relief, Western Cape, 27 March 2001