SOCIAL welfare schemes are set for a massive revamp and update to ensure more efficiency, revealed Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.
He told MPs in writing that the targeted schemes include the anti-inflation payments, pension support, and allowances for meat, housing, social aid and disability.
The minister pointed out that all schemes would be debated during a meeting between a special ministerial panel and legislators.
“We have managed in 2018 to unify payments of multiple social welfare schemes on one date, which has helped people benefit from wholesome cash,” said Shaikh Salman.
“All schemes are being reviewed and will continue to be reviewed with legislators as we explore efficient options that elevate, update and upgrade the existing,” he added.
“We are committed in the four-year Government Action Plan 2023-2026 to develop citizens’ living standards with us looking not just to restructure social welfare, but also the mechanism of subsidies.
“The national economy has seen significant growth with an increase of 4.9 per cent in 2022 compared to 2021, which was the highest since 2013.”
He said the government has managed to increase the non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022.
“The non-oil sector, in its multiple fields, witnessed 6.2pc growth last year, which was the highest since 2012.”
He pointed out that the deficit in 2022 was slashed 85pc.
Shaikh Salman explained easier commerce procedures have also helped secure $1.1 billion worth of investments in 2022, while investments worth $2.5bn were expected this year.
“There are strategic projects worth $30bn that would be launched this year, with 23 other projects already launched last year such as the US Trade Zone, Exhibition World Bahrain, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa, and King Hamad American Mission Hospital.
“All new projects will contribute to improving people’s lives with a target of 20,000 jobs being found yearly and 10,000 training opportunities.”
“Last year, the jobs target reached 150 per cent and training 103pc.
“Until March, 36pc citizens of the target were found jobs and training reached 21pc of the target group.”
Shaikh Salman said citizens are the core of all projects and programmes.
“We want more benefits for people, positive economic indicators and a fairer society.”
The written reply sent to Parliament by the Cabinet yesterday was in response to a question by MP Khalid Bu Onk on plans to improve social welfare schemes.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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