Monthly aid sought for people of determination in UAE

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Monthly aid sought for people of determination in UAE

Abu Dhabi - The minister said that the UAE is keen to provide decent living for its citizens.

By Jasmine Al Kuttab

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Published: Thu 19 Apr 2018, 9:38 AM

Last updated: Thu 19 Apr 2018, 11:43 AM

Steady monthly allowances must be given to the Emirati people of determination, who are unable to work, yet, have to support their families and households, heard the Federal National Council (FNC) on Wednesday.
FNC member Salem Ali Al Shehhi addressed his concerns to Hessa bint Isa Abu Humaid, Minister of Community Development, about issuing allowances to Emiratis who are unable to work due to medical conditions.
The member's concern came after the recent case of 56-year-old Ali Al Mazrouei, who called a local radio station in Ajman to voice his financial struggles.
The minister said that the UAE is keen to provide decent living for its citizens, adding that the Social Security Law guarantees access to social assistance and monthly financial assistance to the head of the family, as well as the members of his family, without limiting the number of individuals.
However, she said, in certain cases, the committee had discovered that some people have been requesting financial assistance, when they were capable of working. She added 65 people who claimed to have disabilities were found to be fit for work.
"These 65 cases were reconsidered after the medical reports verified that they were able to return to work."
On the other hand, Al Shehhi said that there are many cases and complaints from people who have been proven to suffer 75 per cent disability, which prevents them from working, yet the committee continues to reject their cases.
"Why are they being rejected if they have disabilities?" He asked the minister.
The minister replied that health deficits vary and should not look at the cases from a personal perspective.
"The ministry deals with these cases in accordance with the law and there are bodies that follow the work."
She added that it is not possible to contravene the medical committee prescribed by the government, adding that the ministry is not licensed to give medical opinion.
However, she stressed that the ministry will take into consideration the FNC member's comments and concerns, and will consider reviewing the Social Security Law.
Marwan bin Ghalaita, first vice-president of the council, said the response by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, regarding Al Mazrouie's case reaffirms the government's rapid response and care for their citizens.
Bin Ghalaita added that the Cabinet's decision to establish a Dh11 billion fund to help low-income Emiratis sends a message that the UAE leaders continue to respond to the needs of its people. jasmine@khaleejtimes.com
For a flourishing society
Government help is at hand for people who are unfit to work. It will help them to have decent living standards. Such progressive policies of the UAE government will hellp the society, as a whole, to truly flourish and evolve.


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