The government has tripled the Christmas bonus this year for all beneficiaries of the Cook Islands Welfare Benefit, from young to old, which was normally $50.

Prime Minister Mark Brown confirmed this in an interview with this newspaper yesterday, emphasising that this should help all residents included in the child benefit, old age pension, destitute, infirm and caregivers.

The one-off payment of $150 per beneficiary, amounts to just over a million dollars according to the Prime Minister, which the government was able to pay out.

“Normally that's a $50 payment to all of the those who receive social welfare this year. We've had a look at it and say well look we really need to put a little bit more out there,” he said.

“So as I said we're in a good position in the recovery which means a good position from a financing economic perspective. Our half yearly forecasts looking good but we're also talking to our tourism industry.”

According to Brown, the $150 payment is a significant jump anticipating great help and appreciation by parents with kids who will be getting a little extra this Christmas so they can make Christmas for them “a little bit more cheerful.”

“For the elderly also that extra $150 for December is going to come in really really helpful for them.”

The government sees this as a significant step in helping the residents this festive season, also while the country is recovering well from tourism.

“Let's make sure that the other sectors of our community also benefit from this,” he added.

Last year, the Christmas bonus was $50 with the announcement stressing that the goal is to affirm the Cook Islands Government’s unwavering commitment in supporting its people.

Minister of Internal Affairs, Rose Vainetutai Toki-Brown, at the time stated that the Christmas bonus payment is intended to provide additional financial support to families during a time when expenses may be higher due to holiday-related costs.

She also reminded all Cook Islands welfare beneficiaries to inform the Ministry of Internal Affairs Te Tango Akarangatira Ora’anga about any travel plans they will be taking during this festive season.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister wishes his very best for everyone this Christmas and a happy new year.