The Ministry of Social Solidarity (MSS) in collaboration with the Public Service Commission (KPF) granted the pension to 157 public servants so they can retire from work with dignity.
The Secretary of State for Social Security (SESS/MSS), Vitor da Costa, said the workers were awarded the pension for their contribution to the public.
“They have contributed to the nation for several years and now they have the right to rest in retirement with a pension,” said SE da Costa in Dili.
More public servants of retiring age pensions are currently being processed.
According to figures from the Public Service Commission some 1,700 public servants are currently entitled to retire with a full pension.
The pension consists of a monthly stipend of 75 percent of their salary at the time of retirement.
Meanwhile Abel da Costa, a public servant retiring from the Directorate for Water and Sanitation (SAS) said he was happy to receive the pension because it means the State recognises his service and he will have a monthly stipend.
“I am also happy because I am retired,” said pensioner da Costa.
He added he had been working for SAS for a long time. “I am 60 years old and retired.”
Meanwhile the President of Public Service Commission, Commissioner Liborio Pereira, all public servants are entitled to a retirement pension at the age of 60 years old.
“During this ceremony we handed over the certificate as well as we said farewell to their active duty in public administration and told them to now go rest. They will receive their pension as long as they are still alive,” said Commissioner Pereira.
He added the retirement of aged public servant is needed to refresh the public service in Timor-Leste with talented and intelligent young professionals.
