SSC must cough up - PDM
JEMIMA BEUKES
WINDHOEK
The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) says all Namibians who have been retrenched or placed on unpaid leave because the coronavirus state of emergency should be allowed to draw two-thirds of their monthly salary from the Social Security Commission (SSC).
“It is well-known that the SSC has billions of dollars in reserves and it is our belief that in this time of national crisis, these funds should be used to provide a much-needed safety net to many Namibians,” PDM treasurer-general and MP Nico Smit said.
“Any grant from government should also be administered through the SSC, as this organisation should have access to the personal information of all employed persons in Namibia.”
Large-scale testing
The official opposition wants government to urgently kick-off large-scale screening and testing. Smit said the testing protocol is problematic.
“An infected person may show symptoms between two to 14 days after being infected, and an infected individual can pass on the Covid-19 virus to other people without being symptomatic,” Smit said.
Transparency needed
He also questioned updates by the government regarding the number of ventilators and test kits available and whether there is enough protective gear for health workers. The party further demanded openness and transparency around the N$8.1 billion stimulus package introduced by finance minister Ipumbu Shiimi.
The under-pressure Namibian economy cannot afford this package, the PDM said.
[email protected]
WINDHOEK
The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) says all Namibians who have been retrenched or placed on unpaid leave because the coronavirus state of emergency should be allowed to draw two-thirds of their monthly salary from the Social Security Commission (SSC).
“It is well-known that the SSC has billions of dollars in reserves and it is our belief that in this time of national crisis, these funds should be used to provide a much-needed safety net to many Namibians,” PDM treasurer-general and MP Nico Smit said.
“Any grant from government should also be administered through the SSC, as this organisation should have access to the personal information of all employed persons in Namibia.”
Large-scale testing
The official opposition wants government to urgently kick-off large-scale screening and testing. Smit said the testing protocol is problematic.
“An infected person may show symptoms between two to 14 days after being infected, and an infected individual can pass on the Covid-19 virus to other people without being symptomatic,” Smit said.
Transparency needed
He also questioned updates by the government regarding the number of ventilators and test kits available and whether there is enough protective gear for health workers. The party further demanded openness and transparency around the N$8.1 billion stimulus package introduced by finance minister Ipumbu Shiimi.
The under-pressure Namibian economy cannot afford this package, the PDM said.
[email protected]
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