President Dr Patrick Herminie and First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie today joined residents of the English River Home for the Elderly to celebrate its 25th anniversary, returning to the Home the President helped open a quarter of a century ago as the district's Member of the National Assembly.
The celebration also highlighted the measures introduced for elderly residents since Government took office a year ago. Addressing the guests, the Minister for Social Affairs, Family and Equality, Mrs Pamela Charlette, recalled that Government has removed the contribution previously paid by residents and now bears the cost of funeral services for residents of homes for the elderly. She added that renovation projects for the Homes, starting this year, will be completed by 2028 at the latest.
Minister Charlette thanked President Herminie for his commitment to the nation's elders, adding that the Ministry is working with all stakeholders to ensure elderly citizens enjoy a better quality of life.
Speaking to the press, President Herminie described the occasion as a historic event. He expressed his satisfaction with how the Home has been maintained over the years, and said he made it his duty to spend time with the residents on this special day.
A highlight of the celebration was the President’s special visit to the Home's eldest resident, 99-year-old Mrs Dupres, who was overjoyed to meet him.
The ceremony, hosted by the Ministry responsible for Family, was blessed by the Right Reverend Danny Elizabeth, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Seychelles. Residents received gifts during the celebration, while Union Vale Supermarket donated a washing machine to the Home.
Also present were the Minister for Local Government and Inner Islands, Ms Eveline Rose; the Secretary of State for Social Affairs, Family and Equality, Mrs Linda William-Melanie; and the Principal Secretary for Family Affairs and Equality, Mr Mike Morel.
Since opening its doors in 2001, the English River Home for the Elderly has offered care, companionship and dignity to generations of residents, a legacy honoured at today's celebration.