1,306 Families Submitted Applications for Parental Allowance
Image of Nikšić, Photo: BORIS PEJOVIC
Since the commencement of applications on January 15, a total of 1,306 families have sought parental allowance for three or more children under the age of 18, a new initiative implemented by the Municipality of Nikšić this year.
Families with three minor children will be granted an annual allowance of 1,200 euros, while those with four or more will receive 2,400 euros per year, disbursed in 12 monthly payments.
“To date, we have received 1,306 applications, with 1,157 from families with three children and 149 from families with four or more. The commission will assess all applications soon, and applicants will be promptly informed about the start of the first payment,” the Municipality of Nikšić stated in response to “Vijesti”.
The funding for the parental allowance comes from the municipal budget, with an allocation of 100,000 euros designated for this initiative. This measure is part of a broader effort by the local government to bolster social support for its residents. If all applications receive approval, the total expenditure could surpass 1.7 million euros.
According to the Municipality’s response to “Vijesti”, given the number of applicants, the allocated funds will be adjusted, ensuring there will be sufficient resources for all parents of three or more children.
This initiative is a response to the recent census data indicating that the town under Trebjes has seen a decline of over 5,500 residents in the past 12 years. The local government believes that introducing new social services is vital for retaining the population and enhancing the quality of life.
“The local administration aims to curb the emigration of our citizens, promote an increase in birth rates, and enhance the living standards for everyone through this and other initiatives,” the Municipality remarked.
Furthermore, the Municipality of Nikšić has raised the parental allowance for newborns. Parents will receive 300 euros for their first child, 500 for the second, 1,000 for the third, and 2,000 euros for the fourth child, with payments spread over six, 12, or 24 equal monthly installments.
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