Government’s efforts are to provide the elderly with as carefree an existence as possible during their golden years
The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams wishes the community and in particular the elderly of St. Maarten a happy International Day of Older Persons.
The Prime Minister commented that the elderly in our society have to be recognized for their contributions to the country and for guiding generations into shaping St. Maarten society. "We must never forget that it is our parents, grandparents and great grandparents that have shaped our community and that have contributed so much to St. Maarten.
The Prime Minister, on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten, congratulates all elderly persons on the International Day of Older Persons and encourages the community of St. Maarten to show appreciation to the older persons in their lives for their guidance and contribution to the society of the island. They are indeed the backbone of our society. Government’s efforts are to provide the elderly with as carefree an existence as possible during their golden years, but a large part of this depends on the family. Young ones should be encouraged to interact with the elderly, learn from them, at the same time teaching them.
A special word of thanks goes out on this day as well to the organizations that focus on our elderly, providing them with care, fellowship and diversion.
On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated 1 October the International Day of Older Persons. The day is celebrated throughout the world, St. Maarten being no exception.
The PM also attended a church service at the Philipsburg Methodist Church on Sunday to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons.