When he spoke before the Health and Labor Commission of the Legislature, as part of the citizen consultation sessions on this text, the spokesperson of the Pueblo Unidos por la Vida federation pointed out that the campaign is against constitutional articles and autonomy of the Social Insurance Fund. CSS), the only public organization that serves retirees and wants to privatize.
Apparently, the former presidential candidate in 2019 presented a study by the International Labor Organization that shows how in some 30 countries the system of privatization of pension payments has failed and how they reverted to single-win loyalty systems.
Méndez showed the failure of the so-called individual accounts that they also want to apply in Panama with Bill 163, which also gives real powers to the current director of CSS, the businessman Din Mon, to use the resources it belongs to the people to rule. .
CSS money will go to the banks, and will be used to support the financial system, as Mon admitted to the media, which will not happen in any country in the world, said Méndez.
In addition to the director of CSS, the Government and the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, are lying to the country when they ensure that this document is the result of consensus, when the truth is that 10 of the 11 groups present at the thematic tables were approved when they returned to a solidarity pension system and rejected parametric measures such as increasing the retirement age.
Méndez reminded the delegates that the Panamanian people know how to vote but also to mobilize and assert their rights, as demonstrated at the end of 2023, during demonstrations against the mining contract signed between the State and First Canada’s transnational quantum and approved in the Senate. or in 2002 against the high cost of living.
Likewise, he suggested that, just as the Government offers conferences to the deputies to better explain, chapter by chapter, the content of Project 163, it would also be allowed to inform social groups that they have proposals for CSS to find out. of the current structural and financial crisis, despite recent disrespectful statements by the head of state that discredits the organizations.
For several analysts, the government’s intention for the social security project to be approved in the Legislature before December 31 is almost impossible, when there is still a designated tour of the deputies through the regions, amid a chorus of voices that wants the document to be withdrawn because it is harmful to the welfare of the workers and their families.
arc/ga
2024-11-22 22:54:00
#voices #Panama #demand #withdrawal #insurance #bill #Prensa #Latina #News
**How do proponents of Bill 163 argue that shifting towards individual accounts and potential privatization will benefit Panama’s retirees in the long term, addressing concerns about risk and instability?**
## World Today News: Panama Pension Reform – A Nation Divided
**Introduction by Host:**
Welcome to World Today News. Tonight, we delve into the heated debate surrounding Panama’s proposed social security reform, Bill 163. We have two distinguished guests joining us: [Guest 1 Name and Affiliation], a proponent of the bill, and [Guest 2 Name and Affiliation], a vocal critic of the proposed changes.
**Section 1: The Core of Contention – Privatization vs. Solidarity**
**Host:** The article highlights strong criticism of Bill 163, particularly regarding its emphasis on individual accounts and the potential privatization of the Social Security Fund (CSS). [Guest 1], can you elucidate the government’s rationale behind this shift? How will these changes benefit Panamanians in the long run?
**Host:** [Guest 2], you’ve been vocal about the potential dangers of privatization and cite the failures of such models in other countries. Can you elaborate on your concerns, specifically addressing the impact on retirees and the potential for increased risk and instability in the pension system?
**Section 2: Transparency and Public Consultation**
**Host:** There are accusations that the government’s claims of consensus around Bill 163 are misleading, with many civil society groups expressing dissent. [Guest 1], how do you respond to these allegations? What measures are being taken to ensure genuine and transparent dialog with all stakeholders, including those who oppose the bill?
**Host:** [Guest 2], you’ve mentioned the importance of public participation in this crucial decision. What specific steps should the government take to ensure a truly inclusive and representative consultation process? How can trust be rebuilt after the perceived lack of transparency?
**Section 3: The Future of CSS and Social Welfare**
**Host:** The article mentions the CSS facing financial challenges. Beyond the proposed reforms, what other strategies could be explored to address these issues and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Social Security system?
**Host:** Some analysts doubt the feasibility of passing Bill 163 before the end of the year amidst growing opposition. [Guest 1], what is your assessment of the timeline for this legislation? How willing is the government to compromise and potentially amend the bill to address public concerns?
**Host:** [Guest 2], what are your predictions for the future of social security in Panama? What message do you have for the Panamanian people and their elected representatives as this critical debate continues?
**Conclusion:**
**Host:** Thank you to both guests for sharing their perspectives on this complex and crucial issue. The fate of Panama’s social security system hangs in the balance, and the voices of all Panamanians must be heard. We encourage our viewers to continue engaging in this dialog and to stay informed about the ongoing developments surrounding Bill 163.
