What about the initiative to link all our records?

THE EDITOR,Madam:

During the Budget presentation in 2023, the announcement was made that with the introduction of NIDS, the life certificate regime would end because all records would be linked.

Instead of hearing how far advanced this project is and how soon pensioners would be able to register for NIDS, the prime minister in his Budget presentation recently, made an announcement about an app. I couldn’t believe I was hearing correctly.

What about the initiative to link all our records? Why do pensioners have to continue bearing the burden of potential dishonesty after they are dead? Does anyone care about the stress that the demand for life certificates places on this vulnerable group? Do politicians have to produce life certificates, or is this only for non-politicians? I cannot imagine why any caring government would renege on its promise to get rid of life certificates for pensioners with the introduction of NIDS.

I am bitterly disappointed that the Government has decided to continue the oppressive system of requiring pensioners to report that they are not yet dead. Producing an app makes it very clear that there is a disconnect between the Government and pensioners.

Am I the only Jamaican who heard Senator Floyd Green speak about getting rid of life certificates for pensioners during the Sectoral Debate in 2023, and now left wondering what is happening?

WINNIE ANDERSON-BROWN