Updated - There are currently 22,221 pensioners who receive less than €500 a month, Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia told Carm Mifsud Bonnici (PN) in reply to a parliamentary question.
The government is today due to reveal proposals by the Pensions Working Group to make the pensions system more sustainable and for elderly people to have a better pension.
The prime minister has indicated that the private sector may be invited to participate in the provision of pensions. He has insisted that retirement age will not be raised. Social security contributions will not be increased.