The Vice-Speaker, Nino Tsilosani and the Chair of the Interim Commission on Women and Children, Mariam Lashkhi, and the Commission members visited the Aspindza Municipality.

In the Aspindza City Assembly, Members of Parliament engaged in a meeting with the populace that was adversely affected by the July 1st fire. The calamitous event resulted in the destruction of the property belonging to 16 families, compelling them to seek shelter under the open sky. The MPs deliberated on the solutions to be provided by the central and local authorities to the affected families. The meeting was attended by the State Trustee to the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, Zaal Gelashvili, and the members of the local authorities.

“The municipal services have provided immediate and comprehensive support to the fire-affected citizens, including offering temporary housing in rented apartments. Currently, the damaged apartments are undergoing expert examination to assess the extent of the damage. The affected families will also receive long-term housing solutions. The fire has caused acute stress to these individuals, and their concerns will be addressed promptly. We have taken responsibility for their plight and pledged to provide the utmost assistance”, - N. Tsilosani noted.

Members of Parliament also met with the Municipal Council on Women and Children of Aspindza Municipality, as well as the leadership of the self-governing body. Mariam Lashkhi presented the Statute of the Commission, the key priorities, and the action plan.

“During the recent meeting with the Municipal Council, the Commission discussed its priorities and the plans for 2025. We gained a better understanding of the needs of women within the municipality and explored potential solutions. During the offsite meetings, Commission members received information about the accomplishments of local entrepreneur women and visited rehabilitation centres for individuals with disabilities, where beneficiaries receive substantial support”, - Eka Sepashvili, Secretary of the Commission, noted.

Nino Tsilosani and the members of the commission visited the centre for persons with disabilities and engaged in discussions with the beneficiaries and the tutors. As mentioned, while the centre’s activities are conducted within the municipal support, certain challenges persist that necessitate the provision of additional personnel, particularly tutors and psychiatrists.

“During our visit to the Aspindza Union for Persons with Disabilities, we became aware of the persistent needs and challenges faced by the beneficiaries. It is crucial to ensure the adequate provision of tutors and psychiatrists within the Centre. Following consultations with local authorities, we have resolved to engage additional tutors and psychiatrists, thereby ensuring the effective care and support of the beneficiaries”, - M. Lashkhi stated.

The meetings in Aspindza were concluded with a visit to the entrepreneurial woman of the ethnic minority residing in the village of Damala. Members of Parliament were provided with a tour of the farm and bakery.