DODIK: SRPSKA DEMONSTRATES ITS RESPONSIBILITY THROUGH CARE FOR VETERAN CATEGORIES

DOBOJ, JUNE 21 /SRNA/ – Republika Srpska demonstrates its responsibility through its care for veteran categories, as well as its ability and determination to continue doing so, President Milorad Dodik has stated today.

After attending the signing of the first employment contracts in Doboj with individuals from the families of fallen soldiers in the city area, Dodik told the press that tens of thousands of children of fallen soldiers had already been employed and that the issue would be fully resolved through the employment of the remaining 500 individuals. “In this way, society and Republika Srpska are demonstrating their responsibility, but also their ability and willingness to continue caring for these families,” Dodik told the press. He congratulated those who received employment decisions, wished them success in their jobs, and stated that it was the obligation of the city administration to monitor the implementation of the programme. He noted that the status-related issues of families of fallen soldiers have been addressed for years in accordance with available resources. He emphasized that society allocates substantial funds for the social and other forms of support for veterans and the families of fallen soldiers, adding that the housing programme remains a priority in order to resolve the housing needs of the families of fallen soldiers and war veterans with disabilities. He recalled that the legal status of veteran categories had been regulated this year, that veterans allowance had been increased, and that a mechanism had been established to adjust those allowances in line with average salary increase. “There is no longer any traumatic theory whether allowances will be increased, because that will now depend on overall social movements,” Dodik said. He added that the veterans allowance is not a primary source of income but a supplementary benefit, while a solution has been found for those without other income sources by doubling the amount of the allowance.