Parliament Proposes Pension Act Amendment to Support Seriously Ill Patients

Parliament has received a proposal to amend the Pension Act to provide pension payments for individuals undergoing treatment for serious illnesses, including cancer. 

The amendment aims to fill a gap in existing legislation and ease the significant financial and psychological burdens faced by patients and their families.

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Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) submitted a letter to the Speaker of Parliament, Abdul Raheem Abdullah, highlighting the lack of clear provisions in the current Pension Act for individuals with severe health conditions. 

The proposed amendment would require the Pension Office to form a team of specialist doctors to confirm serious illnesses and issue medical certificates. This measure would allow affected individuals to access their pensions promptly, regardless of their age or years of service.

The amendment also seeks to ensure that pension payments are prioritised, with applications processed within 30 days.