President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday announced that the country’s servicemen and women will benefit from a one-month bonus.

“Today, I want to announce that this year 12,000 of our service men and women will receive the annual bonus,” President Ali announced.

He was at the time addressing the Guyana Defence Force’s Annual Christmas Luncheon held at Base Camp Seweyo, Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

The announcement will see a sum of $1.6 billion being paid out.

“So in addition to your $100,000 grant, you will be receiving this year, one month of annual bonus – which is $1.6 billion transferred to our men and women in uniform.

“This is a demonstration again of our commitment, our love, for you,” President Ali announced.

The incentive is in recognition of the soldiers’ dedication in safeguarding the nation and its people.

“Today, we applaud you

“We, a grateful nation, we are thankful for your service, your sacrifice and your commitment in the continuous oath of defending our homeland and keeping Guyana safe.

“The job of a solider is not defined by a Term of Reference alone.

“The job of solider requires agility. It requires continuous training, discipline, commitment, fitness; it requires a life that is very much different – one that is completed dedicated to the protection and the safeguard of our country and our people,” President Ali said.