By MATT MAURA
NASSAU, Bahamas (BIS) — Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, the Hon. Frankie A. Campbell, said on Thursday, February 14, 2019, that ministry officials are in the process of reviewing and “putting into place” laws that will protect the country’s Senior Citizens.
“You are entitled to be treated with respect and decency,” Minister Campbell said to a rousing round of applause from the seniors – the vast majority of whom were “decked out” in their red and white.
Addressing a Senior Citizens’ Valentine’s Day and Movie Extravaganza hosted by the Urban Renewal Commission at Galleria Cinemas, Mall at Marathon, Mr. Campbell took the opportunity to introduce Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, Mr. Michael Foulkes, to the seniors.
Minister Campbell said Parliamentary Secretary Foulkes, an attorney by profession, has as a primary task the review and putting in place of laws that are “deficient in our ministry.”
“Among the laws he has been asked to review and put in place are the laws that will protect elderly Senior Citizens. We are satisfied that you have done your due. We are satisfied that you have put in your time. We are satisfied that you have paved the way for all of us. We are also satisfied that you are entitled to be treated with respect and decency,” Minister Campbell added to a rousing round of applause.
Two hundred seniors from communities across New Providence and those who are members of the Urban Renewal Seniors Association participated in the event – despite the sometimes inclement weather. Bused under the protective covering of the Mall, the seniors were seated in the Food Court for a short welcome ceremony before being escorted into the Movie Theatre.
They were greeted at the door by representatives of the Urban Renewal Commission who formed a reception line to receive the seniors. Minister Campbell serenaded the female seniors with a rendition of Endless Love. All of the seniors were presented with gift baskets and other treats.
“This morning, I am more than pleased to be here with you,” said Minister Campbell. “It was very, very important that I share in this special day, this special time and this special occasion with you.”
Mrs. Sheryl Knowles, Programme and Special Projects Coordinator with the Urban Renewal Commission, said the Commission annually uses Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to “reach out” to seniors in the urban communities “by treating them to a day out at the movies.”
“This is one of the many ways we remind them that we love, cherish and celebrate them on the internationally recognized and celebrated day of love,” Ms. Knowles said.
“This is a day that many of them look forward to annually as they get to share with other seniors, watch a movie and enjoy hot dogs, popcorn, drinks and lots of laughter. Urban Renewal Seniors Association is an outlet that is used to keep our seniors active and motivated,” Ms. Knowles added.
