With an intention to effectively address issues faced by senior citizens, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) and the national Department of Social Development (DSD) have partnered to launch the inaugural National Senior Citizens’ Parliament under the theme Building a Caring Society for Senior Citizens Through Oversight & Public Participation.
The Parliamentary Sitting is part of GPL and DSD’s efforts to address challenges faced by senior citizens in South Africa, where many do not adequately and meaningfully enjoy fundamental respect for their human rights; nor do they live in dignity to the level of their entitlement in the society. The elderly in South Africa and beyond have immensely contributed in the shaping of the society we live in today, yet this has been overshadowed by the negatives and the immoral practices that have left most of them victims of abuse and abandonment. Their dedication as mentors and as history bearers in all aspects of human life is often overlooked.
The Senior Citizens’ Parliament 2013 will be held as follows:
Date: Monday, 21 October 2013
Venue: GPL Precinct: Chamber & City Hall
Time: 9h00
Discussions for the day will focus on:
- Awareness and the implementation of the Older Persons Act, 2006 (ActNo.13 of 2006)
- Older persons burden of care and their protection.
- Active ageing
- The impact of government services in the lives of older persons.
A total number of 600 participants have been identified and have been invited, selected from each of our nine provinces. Also invited amongst others are: Senior Citizens Organisations; Women’s Groups; Elderly Recreation Clubs; 2010, 2011 & 2012 SCSP Speakers; Municipalities; Religious Groups; the South African Older Persons Forum (SAOPF);Political Veterans; and Old Age Homes.
To ensure the successful and meaningful impact of the launch, DSD and GPL successfully consulted with knowledgeable sources such as: The South African Older Persons Forum (SAOPF); The Human Rights Commission; The Madrid International Plan Of Action On Ageing; and The Older Persons Act (13/2006).
Members of the media are invited to cover the proceedings, and are requested to RSVP by Thursday, 17th October 2013 in order to receive accreditation.
For RSVPs, kindly contact:
Pfano Bulasigobo
GPL Media Officer
Tel: 011 498 6381
Cell: 076 323 0941
E-mail: PBulasigobo@gpl.gov.za
Jaconia Kobue
DSD Media Officer
Cell: 073 026 1111
E-mail: jaconiak@dsd.gov.za
Media enquiries may be directed to:
Lumka Oliphant
DSD Spokesperson
Cell: 083 484 8067
E-mail: lumkao@dsd.gov.za
