News Source Guyana Reports : As concerns continue to grow over difficulties some citizens are experiencing while registering for the Government’s $100,000 cash grant, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh has assured that measures are being implemented to assist affected individuals.
Speaking on the ongoing distribution programme, Dr. Singh revealed that government teams have been dispatched to several communities to help senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and others who may be struggling with the registration process.
According to the Finance Minister, the current phase of the distribution programme is primarily focused on applicants with bank accounts, as payments can be processed more efficiently through the banking system.
Dr. Singh reported that nearly 400,000 Guyanese have already received the cash grant since the initiative was launched in February. He noted that more than 200,000 additional persons are expected to benefit as registration continues across the country.
“So far, we have been able to register and pay close to 400,000 persons, which is quite a large number considering the speed with which this has been done,” Dr. Singh stated. He added that approximately 390,000 individuals have already been processed, with the vast majority receiving payments directly into their bank accounts.
The Minister acknowledged that while there were initial challenges with the online registration portal, most of those issues have since been resolved and the system is now functioning smoothly.
However, challenges remain for individuals with mobility limitations and residents in remote hinterland communities. To address these concerns, the government has introduced alternative registration arrangements in Regions One, Seven, and Nine, where mobile teams are visiting communities to assist residents with registration and payment processing.
Dr. Singh also disclosed that the Ministry of Finance is working closely with the Ministry of Human Services to ensure that shut-ins and persons living with disabilities are not left behind. Teams have been deployed to visit homes and assist eligible persons directly.
The Finance Minister encouraged citizens to open bank accounts and utilize the online portal whenever possible, describing it as the fastest and easiest way to receive the grant. At the same time, he emphasized that citizens without bank accounts will not be excluded from the programme.
“We continue to urge people to get bank accounts and use the portal to sign up because this is the easiest way to receive the cash grant. However, if you do not have a bank account or choose not to open one, you will not be denied the grant,” Dr. Singh assured.
He further explained that verification and payment processing will continue in batches as applications are reviewed and approved.
Meanwhile, calls continue to grow for a simpler registration process, particularly for elderly citizens and persons with disabilities. Some individuals who have already been registered through home visits are still awaiting payment and have expressed concerns over the lack of information regarding when they can expect to receive their grants.
Government officials have indicated that the distribution programme remains ongoing and that additional payments will be made as verification procedures are completed.
