Thursday, 5 December 2013
Prime Minister: State Programs Set To Eliminate Poverty Causes
Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan attended a gala even at the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theater after Al. Spendiaryan dated to the 95th anniversary of the establishment of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs and the 20th anniversary of social services in Armenia.
On behalf of the government of Armenia, Tigran Sargsyan extended congratulations on the jubilee, reminding that the staff involved in welfare services deal with the daily problems of citizens in need of assistance.
“Each day you came across the problems facing our country. First of all, I mean the most important task of poverty reduction. A large portion of the population needs assistance and support. Sometimes, it is not question of financial assistance, but sharing in people’s sorrow and concerns. A kind word may often suffice to soothe the suffering. You are implementing hard work in that front, and it depends on your performance whether our vulnerable groups will be satisfied with our services or not. Of course, financial assistance matters, too, and we are obliged to provide support to needy people. To this end, the State is increasing budget allocations, with the bulk funneled toward the solution of social problems,” the Prime Minister said.
The head of government reminded that radical changes have been operated in the social sphere, which have resulted in more targeted social services. The government was said to have launched several new programs with a positive impact. The Prime Minister mentioned the integrated social service system, which in principle makes it convenient to benefit from one-stop shop services.
“We need to be able to tackle the root cause of poverty. The lack of education and low educational level are among the key factors leading to poverty in Armenia. Under the new concepts, the lack of financial resources should not prevent the vulnerable from getting higher education. The State is going to provide full coverage of educational expenses for vulnerable students. We will be standing by poor families,” Tigran Sargsyan assured.
The Premier advised that at least 10 new programs will be introduced in the near future to ensure that vulnerable households get employment in Armenia. Numerous training programs will be initiated to that end.
Thanking once again the social service staff for a vast amount of work, Tigran Sargsyan wished them every success in future activities.
A group of welfare workers were awarded the Prime Minister’ commemorative medals, letters of appreciation and souvenirs.
