Pensioners want SSNIT blacklist ‘slow’ banks

The National Pensioners Association (NPA) has called on the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to blacklist all banks that delay in payment of pensioners monthly benefits.

The association pointed out that on the sixth day of each month, SSNIT formalises the necessary documentations and then releases monies to be paid to pensioners through the receiving banks countrywide. It said despite this arrangement, the pensioners find it extremely difficult accessing their monies.

Mr Edward Ameyibor, the General Secretary of the NPA, made the appeal at a meeting of the association in Accra on Friday.

The meeting was aimed at discussing problems facing the members and to find solution to them.
“The difficult part of this situation is that, these old pensioners are made to join long queues at the banks for hours before they are paid their benefits,” he said.

He said that pensioners had contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of the country and they should by no means be treated shabbily.

Mr Ameyibor said that the banks are guilty and SSNIT should take drastic measures to address the issue.

Commenting on some initiatives to improve the lots of pensioners, he announced that SSNIT has commenced the construction of a recreational centre in Accra for members of the association.

“The building will be completed in 18 months.

“Facilities include a conference room to accommodate about 100 people, a restaurant, and other facilities specially fitted for the aged,” he said.

The Director-General of SSNIT, Kwasi Boatin, assured the pensioners that all their grievances would be addressed to improve their welfare.

“SSNIT will work closely with the association and find ways and means to make your activities lucrative and productive,” he said.

He advised the pensioners to use their leisure period for the development of their communities and not indulge in unproductive activities.

Source: New Times