Age Concern Members Concerned About Budget
“In a recent survey of 389 of our members, comprised of persons aged 50 and older, more than 75% of respondents indicated that they are extremely concerned about Bermuda’s budget this year,” Age Concern said.
A spokesperson said, “The Government is worthy of praise for the excellent handling of the Covid- 19 pandemic, these are indeed difficult financial times for many nations around the world. It is clear however, that many more challenges lie ahead locally and world-wide. Subsequent sound and balanced, fiscal, and humanitarian decisions must consider the well-being of current and future generations.
“In a recent survey of 389 of our members, comprised of persons aged 50 and older, more than 75% of respondents indicated that they are extremely concerned about Bermuda’s budget this year. More alarmingly, more than 50% of respondents, rated a score of “10”, representing the highest level of concern.
“In the same survey, the top three areas of concern regarding the upcoming budget were as follows: the cost of living [90.2%]; healthcare [79.9%] and pensions [65.8%]. Other repeated and notable areas of concern included: the size and sustainability of the national debt; increased taxation; safety and security of older adults and the qualifications and integrity of Members of Parliament to carry out their responsibilities.
“There remains an expectation that the current Government will deliver on its promises to address the cost of living, food, and housing in particular; and to implement national health and ageing plans. Unfortunately, however the country has yet to see tangible results in either of these areas.
“As concerned citizens the seriousness of the financial situation ahead is most daunting. These concerns will intensify with the backdrop of the threat of a world war.
“As advocates of older adults, we reinforce the voice and concerns of our members. The resignation of the finance minister is deeply worrying to a wide variety of Bermudians, including older adults. As a result, all eyes and ears will be on Friday’s budget.
“We wait with hopeful anticipation that our fears are unfounded and that the budget will reflect meaningful prioritization in addressing these critical issues.”
Bernews will have live coverage of the budget tomorrow.
“more than 75% of respondents indicated that they are extremely concerned about Bermuda’s budget this year”
Really? You think that feeling is limited to the over 50s?