There are no concerns regarding challenges in pension payments and their regular adjustments, stated Damir Gutić, the Minister of Social Care, Family and Demographics. He assured that funds for the regular payment of pensions have been secured, and that they will continue to be paid regularly through temporary financing, regardless of the budget not being approved yet.
“Since pensions are paid retroactively, meaning the January pensions, which are subject to the first regular legal adjustment of pension and disability insurance rights (PIO) on January 1, are scheduled for payment on February 20, there is enough time for the budget to be adopted by that date,” said Gutić.
He reminded that the government had adopted amendments to the Law on PIO, which relates to so-called proportional pensions, but that it has not yet passed the parliamentary procedure, which was initially planned.
“We believe that the Parliament will fulfill its obligations and adopt the Budget Law and other laws that the Government has approved in the near future, ensuring the smooth fulfillment of all state obligations, including pension payments,” said Gutić.
He also added that amendments to the Law on War Veterans and Disability Protection, which the government has already approved, are expected to be adopted soon.
