Title: New Social Welfare Initiatives for Retirees Announced – Government Pledges Support
Enhanced Benefits and Financial Support for Retirees
In a significant move to improve retirees’ livelihoods, Mohammad Asadi, head of the Supreme Council of Social Security Retirees, announced new welfare measures developed in collaboration with the Bank Refah and partner stores. The “Omid Refah Fund” aims to facilitate easier purchases through a tripartite partnership, ensuring better living conditions for retirees.
Asadi praised Dr. Salari, Managing Director of the Social Security Organization, for his efforts in fulfilling commitments to retirees, including the issuance of new adjustment-based payment decrees in May and the settlement of delayed payments from April by June. While the first phase was successfully implemented, unforeseen challenges—including regional conflicts—temporarily hindered the second phase due to resource constraints.
Pending Payments and Government Commitments
Retirees are still awaiting the delayed payments from April 2024, estimated at 3 to 4 million tomans per individual, as confirmed by Mohammad Hassan Mousavand, Secretary of the Lorestan Workers’ House. The Supreme Council of Retirees has held urgent meetings with Dr. Salari, urging prompt resolution.
In response, Salari assured that after July’s pension disbursement, a joint meeting would finalize the timeline for April’s overdue payments. He also addressed broader financial strategies, including discussions with the First Vice President on settling the government’s 185 trillion toman debt to the Social Security Organization, as outlined in the 2024 budget.
Transparency and Future Plans
Salari emphasized the organization’s commitment to resolving retiree concerns, stating, “We prioritize settling dues but must balance urgent needs. Rest assured, the President and First Vice President share our dedication to retirees’ welfare.”
Ali Asghar Bayat, Secretary of the Supreme Council, acknowledged Salari’s persistent advocacy in government meetings, stressing the need for debt clearance and improved loan access for retirees.
Retirees Seek Clarity and Fairness
With five months passed since the April delays, retirees like Seyed Ahmad Hosseini, a 35-year veteran worker, express frustration over worsening living costs. “If we delayed insurance payments, we faced penalties. Now, after five months, will delayed payments include interest?” he questioned, highlighting inflation’s heavy toll.
Nassrollah Allah Dariabeigi, Vice President of the Supreme Council, echoed calls for transparency in healthcare services and supplementary insurance settlements, reaffirming trust in Dr. Salari’s sincerity.
Looking Ahead
As discussions continue, retirees remain hopeful for swift resolution. The government and Social Security Organization reaffirm their pledge to address financial obligations, ensuring retirees receive their rightful support amid economic challenges.
“We are trustees of your rights,” Salari affirmed, “and will uphold our administrative and ethical duties.”
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
