It’s a crying shame that Guernsey isn’t so caring as it once was
ON MONDAY 21 August I was listening to the radio. It was mentioned that pensioners might not be able to use their free bus pass until 9.30am. At that time, I thought that is reasonable for people going to work. I even mentioned it on Guernsey People Have Your Say.
The whole story wasn’t out then. Reading the Press the same day, it was revealed on the front page. At first I thought, taken free travel away at weekends, but apparently not. However, to top it off, for others approaching pension age, they would have to wait for their free bus pass, some up to 70.
So decision makers, here we go again. You do it once more – undermining pensioners, making them feel that you are doing them a favour by issuing the free bus pass.
My late mum took pleasure for many years going on the bus and the drivers got to know her. One day a new driver took the 81 route and got lost around Jerbourg. My mum guided him around the lanes right to La Villette bus stop – the driver was so grateful. I think she earned her free pass, what would she make of it all now, I wonder?
When one stops work after many years paying dues, things change. One checks their spending, what they can afford and what they better leave on the shelf.
Some feel inadequate, maybe because throughout their working life they had responsibilities for other workers and customers/clients. They find they are not responsible for these things anymore.
Many volunteer at places like Les Bourgs, community cafes. Some knit for those in need, become voluntary drivers to feel useful.
Guernsey used to be proud of their pensioners looking after them as best they could, but now it’s take away their free bus passes, no cost of living rise. What next maybe, their free subscriptions for medications? Yes, make them feel even more inadequate – let them feel insignificant because that’s what happens to the pensioner that hasn’t got much already – some will become depressed, stay home, not talk to anyone, won’t ask for help when they need it.
It’s a crying shame that our Guernsey isn’t so caring as it once was. When my mum passed away in 2022 she wanted Sarnia Cherie sung at her funeral as she left the church on her final journey. My mum said: ‘I’m so proud to have lived out my life on Guernsey. I want Sarnia Cherie as that is all about my beloved Guernsey.’
I wonder if she had lived longer if she’d be saying the same?
I’m sad, but pleased she is not here today to see how pensioners are being treated.
What next? A pill at 65-70 years, depending when you get a pension? Maybe not, euthanasia isn’t passed here on Guernsey, yet.
ANNE BLONDEL
Woodenheart
Rue des Pages
St Martin’s