Seniors are to receive a 1.74 per cent increase in their pensions.

Senators gave their approval yesterday to the move — the eighth year in a row seniors have enjoyed a rise in benefits to align with the rate of inflation.

Kim Wilkerson, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, told senators: “We recognise what seniors need to ensure they live the life they deserve.”

The Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Contributions and Benefits) Order 2026, approved in the House of Assembly last week, was described as having a “small negative impact” on the Contributory Pension Fund.

Workers and employers will need to contribute an additional 4.25 per cent towards the CPF weekly to allow for this increase, which pensioners will see from September 15.

Ms Willkerson told how the Progressive Labour Party had repeatedly increased benefits for pensioners since returning to power in 2017, while the One Bermuda Alliance only boosted pensions once between 2012 and 2017.

She added: “I am proud of the fact that this 1.74 per cent increase marks the eighth year in a row for an increase.

“This government cares and takes care of seniors. This government recognises the challenges that seniors face.”