Johannesburg- For the first time since the inception of Golden Games senior citizens from all Provinces had a very first parliament session at the Gauteng Legislature in Johannesburg on Monday, 21 October 2013.
Among issues tabled were challenges such as serious abuse they are exposed to from their own children and grandchildren by making them look after their children, grant abuse by money laundering companies as well as other societal abuse including access to health care.
To curb these challenges the Minister of Health Mr. Aaron Motswaledi who was part of the parliament announced to senior citizens that as of next year, 2014, the Department will be introducing to a pilot elite care for senior citizens at selected Districts of which the North West Province pilot is DR Kenneth Kaunda.
The pilot will address among others challenges of long queues at hospital and clinics by senior citizens.
The North West Province was represented by 25 members including the Chairperson of the North West Forum Rre Rabaji and his Deputy Rre Maropeng.
“As senior citizens, we appreciate this parliament as our issues at grassroots will no longer end up where we are but will be elevated to the higher echelons of leadership, said Mr. Rabaji.
“We also hope that whatever we raise to government will be swiftly and decisively addressed due to the level this parliament is placed.”
The Parliament is attached to the Golden Games and will be cascaded to the three spheres of government for better integration as well as addressing senior people’s issues with the respect and dignity it deserves.
Older person from the Province especially the chairperson Rre Rabaji conveys the message to the Departments of Social Department and Sport, Arts and Culture for the sterling work they are doing for senior citizens.-TDN
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