Denise Daley, the Opposition spokesperson on gender, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, has issued a pressing call for the reform of Jamaica’s public sector pension system. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Daley highlighted the plight of retired Jamaicans who face prolonged delays in receiving their pension benefits, leaving many in financial distress and reliant on family, neighbors, or charity for survival. Her remarks followed a ministerial statement by Pearnel Charles Jr, Minister of Labour and Social Security, on the outcomes of Senior Citizens’ Month 2025. Daley emphasized the moral obligation of the State to ensure the financial and emotional well-being of the elderly, urging the government to implement timely pension processes and public education initiatives. She also called for a review of policies affecting seniors on fixed incomes, particularly property taxes, which have become a significant burden. While commending the Ministry and the National Council for Senior Citizens for their efforts in promoting active ageing, Daley stressed the need for practical measures beyond celebratory events. In response, Minister Charles Jr acknowledged the challenges and outlined ongoing efforts to modernize the pension system, including reducing processing times and introducing digital solutions like the ‘I’m Alive’ app for life certification. However, he noted that some seniors still prefer traditional methods, highlighting the importance of balancing modernization with the preferences of the elderly. Anthony Hylton, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Western, criticized the frequent life certificate requirement as outdated and burdensome, urging the government to streamline the process. Charles Jr defended the bureaucracy as a means of accountability but assured that alternative options are being introduced to cater to diverse needs.