The Labor and Health Commission is evaluating the third and fourth blocks of Bill 163, which includes reforms to the Social Security Fund and the IVM program. The chairman of the Commission, Alaín Cedeño, aims to achieve the approval of both blocks by the end of the week so that they can go to the second debate next week.
Regarding the Retirement Age, Cedeño mentioned that there is consensus among the nine deputies not to increase it, although there are differences on some articles. For example, the PRD will present a proposal for a mixed plan with modifications, while other parties like RM, CD, Panameñistas, and VAMOS prefer to maintain the provisions of the original project but with some modifications. In this regard, Cedeño highlighted that he agrees with the position of VAMOS.
One of the important points under discussion is the model to be used in the Law and the increase in retirement benefits. Cedeño noted that efforts are underway in communication with the Board and the Executive to seek the best approach, emphasizing the goal of avoiding a gradual increase in the retirement age. To achieve this, there is a need to implement tax improvements and make adjustments in various areas to demonstrate to the population that sacrifices are being made in all areas.
Cedeño mentioned the possibility of continuing with the first debate this Tuesday afternoon if consensus is reached, with the intention of moving to the fourth block. The deputy emphasized the urgency of the process and highlighted that hard work is being done to provide the best for the population, acknowledging the complexity of the task but reiterating the commitment to finding solutions that benefit the people.
