A NUMBER of Ministry of Human Services and Social Security officers paid a visit to Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) last Tuesday and Wednesday, in an effort to ensure that public and old age assistance services are reaching the eligible and providing them benefits.

Among the visitors, who went to Corriverton, Whim and New Amsterdam, were Permanent Secretary, Mr. Trevor Thomas, Chief Probation Officer, Mr. Deendayal Singh and two staffers from the Difficult Circumstances Unit.

Singh reported Friday that they had a meeting with staff of the Region Six Administration during which they discussed the delivery of quality service, whether it was prompt and its progress, so far.

According to him, they explored possibilities and avenues through which the Ministry can examine and assist people to start micro businesses and become self- reliant again.

Singh said they also listened to complaints and concerns from public assistance and old age pension beneficiaries and took appropriate actions to have them addressed.

He said the Ministry has since developed a strategy to deal with the internal problems facing its Region Six functionaries who, generally, appreciated the visit, as well.

Singh said the Ministry plans to continue such interventions in other regions to assure people that it cares for their needs.

Human Services Minister, Ms. Priya Manickchand and Presidential Adviser, Mr. Odinga Lumumba went to several communities in Region Six last March 2 as part of the Cabinet Outreach and to inform on the 2009 Budget proposals to further propel development there.

On that occasion, they interacted with villagers of John’s, Bloomfield, Letter Kenny, Whim and Lancaster, and sought means to solve issues raised, surrounding high cost of electricity, low water pressure, road construction, drainage and irrigation and education.

Minister Manickchand explained, then, that public assistance is not meant to be long-term but rather a means to assist persons out of difficult situations, by helping them embark on small business enterprises and provide for themselves.