Disappointment Among Pensioners Over Easter Bonus Eligibility
In a turn of events that has left many low-income retirees disheartened, the festive period brought with it an unwelcome surprise. The Union of Cypriot Pensioners (EKYSY) has reported a significant increase in the number of pensioners who did not receive their anticipated Easter bonus this year. This financial support, traditionally given to assist retirees during the holiday, was notably absent for a larger group compared to previous years.
General Secretary Kostas Skarparis of EKYSY expressed concern over the growing discontent among pensioners. He noted that the union’s phone lines have been overwhelmed by calls from those who were perplexed and frustrated about their exclusion from this year’s bonus recipients. Many of these individuals had received the bonus in the past and were taken aback to find themselves disqualified this time around.
Under the current Christodoulides government, which has followed the precedent set by the Anastasiades administration, the financial criteria for eligibility remained unchanged. Only 13,500 individuals were eligible for the allowance, which was less than last year by approximately 3,000 pensioners. This stark decrease has raised questions and concerns among those affected.
Adding to the retirees’ grievances, Skarparis pointed out a discrepancy in the government’s cost-of-living support measure. An announced €100 allowance was halved to just €50 for pensioner households comprising two individuals. This detail, according to Skarparis, was not made clear initially, leading to further disappointment among the pensioners who had expected more substantial support.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by pensioners, particularly those relying on such bonuses to supplement their income during times of celebration and increased expenditure. As thousands of low-income retirees did not receive an Easter bonus this year, the issue of revising eligibility criteria and ensuring transparent communication from the government remains a pressing concern for EKYSY and its members.
