The Minister of Social Affairs yesterday denied
a report that the government has no more budget to support the IDPoor subsidy
programme.
The statement came after the government
suspended the cash support programme for pregnant women and children under two
years for five days during the Pchum Ben festival between September 16 and 20.
Speaking at a press conference at the ministry
office yesterday, Minister Vong Sauth said that after the government agreed to
the suspension, some said that the move was due to a lack of funds.
“Some groups have said that the government is
short of money. It is not true. Officials are also entitled to have their
holidays during Pchum Ben festival. The people did not lose out as they still
get paid their money after the holiday ended,” he said.
He asked that people listen to news from the
government and relevant ministries instead of hearsay from others.
“The ministry is continuing to pay cash as
usual. The government has already been sending out nearly $30 million per month
since June,” he said
He added that the number of people has also
increased from 500,0000 to 700,000 families.
“The ministry still asks those who believe they are entitled to the
fund should apply,” he said.
Sauth also took the opportunity to extend his
gratitude to Wing specialised bank for facilitating the programme and ensuring
smooth cash transfers.
Chief of village 4 in Chraing Chamres 2
commune, Neb Songkha, said that his villagers have received payments, which
have helped them during the pandemic.
“The cash has helped a lot, especially widows,
disabled people and the elderly who cannot work,” he said.