For those of you who could not attend the General Assembly on 26 October, you may wish to view/download** the event, by clicking on the following links e.g.
Morning session direct link: https://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/6025/icode/
Afternoon session direct link: https://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/6027/icode/
**Click on PLAY button to view or on the three vertical dots to select DOWNLOAD option
[cid:image001.png@01D7C51A.0B2366D0] 2022 FFOA Annual General Assembly on “virtual mode”
(date: 26 October 2022 – 11:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00 (Rome time)
https://fao.zoom.us/j/99285313095
Meeting ID: 992 8531 3095
Passcode: 11897736
OR
Join by Skype for Business: https://fao.zoom.us/skype/99285313095<https://fao.zoom.us/skype/95204010601>
If you use the ZOOM platform for the first time, you should first download/install ZOOM Client software, by following the instructions on the attached Zoom Meeting Quick Start Guide. When you join the Zoom Meeting, your microphone is automatically muted. We will not probably have sufficient time for a Q&A session but you can request to intervene by clicking on the Zoom “raise hand” icon or
Our annual General Assembly meeting is confirmed for Wednesday, 26 October from 11:00 to 17:00 hours (with a break from 13:00 to 14:00 hours), which you may attend virtually using Zoom. Please consider this message your invitation to attend. One week before the GA, members having an email address will receive a reminder with the specifications to join the ZOOM session as well as the Meeting Quick Start Guide.
Kindly find below the corrected English version of the FFOA Note on the above-mentioned subject. Any inconvenience regretted.
Dear Members,
As indicated in our email dated 22 July, UNJSPF started mailing the CE in paper on July 5th to all retirees worldwide who did not use the DCE App (Digital Certificate of Entitlements). Rest assured that you will receive it soon, if the CE has not arrived yet.
As indicated in our email dated 22 July, UNJSPF started mailing the CE in paper on July 5th to all retirees worldwide who did not use the DCE App (Digital Certificate of Entitlements). Rest assured that you will receive it soon, if the CE has not arrived yet.
We would also like to remind you that, if you leave outside Rome/Italy and cannot leave the CE to the RBAs Premises, you can mail it directly to the UNJSPF Office in Geneva (if you leave in Europe) or to the UNJSPF Office in NY. UNJSPF mail and telephone contacts
We have been requested by FAO/OCCC to send the attached article concerning the 2022 Inter Agency Games in which pensioners also participated. Best regards,
Please find attached the Newsbrief 117 and the Election/2023-2025/01 & 02 Documents regarding the Election of the Executive Committee of the FFOA for the period 2023-2025.
FFOA would like to suggest that you take note of the below request by Theresa Panuccio in relation to the ongoing elections to the UNFCU Board:
“I am reaching out to ask for your support and your vote in the UNFCU elections for the Board of Directors.
To date, I have served three terms (nine years) on the Board of Directors of the UNFCU, and in that time I have been appointed to serve also as Secretary of the Board (three years) and currently I serve as Vice Chairperson, an indication of my co-Directors trust and confidence. You
Dear Members, Please find attached the Newsbrief 116 as well as the Provisional Report of the 51 General Assembly held on 27 October 2021 that should be approved by the next GA in October 2022.
Many of you will be hoping for increases in your pension payments, most after some hiaitus.
2. Below is a summary of information we know so far for 2022.
3. We shall start with the country where most of our members live.
ITALY
4. The change of Consumer Price index (CPI) to be applied to the local track of Italy will be 5.3% in the April 2022 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) update, which has been derived by comparing the December 2021 CPI against the last implemented CPI of December 2017.
As many of you may have seen, some individuals have recently circulated a petition regarding Pension Fund investments.
FFOA believes that it is an unnecessary alarm.
The Investment Section is short a couple of staff, so they are farming out for a short time a small amount, all approved in accordance with proper procedures, which brought us an 11.1% return on investments last year.
As we have entered a new year, we want to thank you for the support you have given to FFOA over the past year and wish to remind annual members that their membership will expire unless renewed.
During the past year, despite being seriously limited as a result of the COVID-19 regulations, your Association has been able to:
Your Executive Committee Members and I wish You and your Families a Healthy and Happy Festive Season and a Happy New Year. We hope that 2022 will see a return to normalcy.
Keep safe and well.
Warm regards,
Edward Seidler
President, FFOA
P.S. The FFOA office will not be functioning from 23 December 2021 to 7 January 2022.
Dear Members, We are pleased to inform you that links are available to access the Proceedings of the 2021 General Assembly. Contrary to last year, FFOA could not obtain a web streaming channel to view/replay video of the GA. Nevertheless, we have used one of the ICloud services (Dropbox) on the web to host our content; you will be able to view/listen to the Proceedings, but you first need to DOWNLOAD those files by using the URL links listed here below:
Join by Skype for Business: https://fao.zoom.us/skype/95204010601
If you use the ZOOM platform for the first time, you should first download/install ZOOM Client software, by following the instructions on the attached Zoom Meeting Quick Start Guide. When you join the Zoom Meeting, your microphone is automatically muted. We will not probably have sufficient time for a Q&A session but you can request to intervene by clicking on the Zoom
Our annual General Assembly meeting is now confirmed for Wednesday, 27 October from 14:00 to 17:00 hours, to be held virtually using Zoom. Please consider this message your invitation to attend. One week before the GA, members having an email address will receive a reminder with the specifications to join the ZOOM session as well as the Meeting Quick Start Guide.
FFOA has been informed by FAO Social Security of the following event that has been organised for FAO staff and retirees for those insured under the BMIP and MMBP Health Insurance policies; since IFAD has a similar Plan this presentation will be useful for IFAD retirees.
FFOA has received from Alessia Bartolucci, HR IFAD, the message below, asking to share this with you.
Dear FFOA colleagues,
This is to inform you that in line with the contract provisions, a client satisfaction survey for Cigna services will be launched for IFAD staff and retirees on 27 September 2021. The survey will be open for 2 weeks.
Dear Members, This message is to inform you that the technical problems related to our +39 0657056016 number have been resolved, so the number is working properly.
Dear Members, This message is to inform you that, due to technical problems, our number 0657056016 is not working properly. Therefore, please contact us only by email and as soon as the problem is resolved we will notify you. Thnk you. Best regards, FFOA Secetariat
We hope this finds you well. Covid-19 continues to impact our lives and our ability to travel. Continued and enhanced restrictions on travelling to Italy have just been announced (29 April).
The following measures are in effect from 29 April - 15 May 2021:
* All travelers - Testing prior to travel to Italy: All persons entering Italy must present negative COVID-19 test results from the 48 hours prior to entering Italy. * Travelers from India, Bangladesh, or Sri Lanka: Persons who have been in or traveled through these countries in the previous 14 days may not enter
Dear Members, You are kindly invited to join "An evening of light entertainment" in New York on 4 May at 1pm (New York time) according to the following Programme:
[cid:B5670F4826C1B24286C45497C54DCF92@eurprd07.prod.outlook.com] AFICS/NEW YORK CELEBRATES ITS 50th ANNIVERSARY Tuesday, 4 May 2021 at 1 p.m. New York time PROGRAMME The UN Chamber Music Society under the direction of Brenda Vongova, President and artistic director; Joseph Bologne, Chevalier De Saint-Georges, “Quartet in G Minor, 1, Allegro”
We have received the following attachment from FAFICS which is a letter from the UN Pension Fund related to the recent introduction by the Fund of a new electronic system for participants to receive and certify their annual Certificates of Entitlement. The Fund indicates (paragraph 10) that this initiative is not compulsory, and members will continue to receive the paper Certificates of Entitlement if they do not or cannot access the electronic certification system.
As we enter a new year, we want to thank you for the support you have given to FFOA over the past year and wish to remind annual members that their membership will expire unless renewed.
During the past year, despite being seriously limited as a result of the COVID-19 regulations, your Association has been able to:
CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO WATCH VIDEO GREETINGS FROM THE FFOA EXCOM
Dear FFOA Members,
Your Executive Committee Members and I wish You and your Families a Healthy and Happy Festive Season and a Happy New Year. We hope that 2021 will see a return to normalcy.
Official documents can now be submitted to the Fund electronically through UNJSPF Member Self-Service
It is now possible for UNJSPF participants and beneficiaries to submit their official documents to the Fund electronically, including Payment Instructions or the barcoded annual Certificate of Entitlement (CE), via their UNJSPF Member Self-Service (MSS)<https://www.unjspf.org/member-self-service/>.
Recognizing the difficulties and stress COVID-19 related disruptions to established mailing channels (i.e. postal mail, special courier, and pouch) have caused, especially to beneficiaries and retirees worldwide, the Fund has made every effort over the past few months to accelerate innovation and offer its clients a secure new channel of electronic
WFP has informed us that the below Cigna webinar is open to all USA-based members of the Rome based Agencies ( WFP, FAO and IFAD).
The platform used is Microsoft Team, but participants do not need to download this software. They can simply click on the link in the light blue button in Cigna’s below email, and they can choose to be connected to the meeting with their regular internet browser (exactly like Zoom I believe).
Important information related to prescriptions in USA If you are having trouble viewing this email view this email online<https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fs1325061471.t.en25.com%2Fe%2Fes%3Fs%3D1325061471%26e%3D93877%26elqTrackId%3D31c57d0b5531474f951d58c924ba7831%26elq%3D5724fd1dd9a740a3a3ccf12c94580e28%26elqaid%3D3966%26elqat%3D1&data=04%7C01%7C%7Cba1e6e2696874d6c0cd908d8923c5d31%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637420135237846530%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=mXh3XSKt68HfEJ9KR9%2BIixuT7sGQnsg3Dj3LeohdWXo%3D&reserved=0> [Cigna Logo] [Together all the way] Cigna Important information related to prescriptions in USA From 1st January 2021, Cigna will move to its proprietary Express Scripts claim processing platform for pharmacy expenses in the USA. There are no changes to the pharmacy network.
We hope you are all keeping safe and well and complying with all the Covid safety measures. Last Wednesday (28th October) we had our 50th Anniversary General Assembly on a virtual basis, using Zoom technology. For those of you that might have missed the proceedings or would like to relive the event you can see the webcast on the FFOA website: www.ffoa-web.org<http://www.ffoa-web.org>
Invitation to the 2020 FFOA Annual General Assembly on “virtual modality”
(Date: Wednesday 28 October 2020 – Start: 9:30 am sharp / End: 13:00, Rome time)
Join Zoom Meeting
Link: https://fao.zoom.us/j/94680469495
Meeting ID: 946 8046 9495
Password: 481339
OR
Join by Skype for Business
https://fao.zoom.us/skype/94680469495
* If you use the Zoom Platform for the first time, you should first download/install ZOOM Client software, by following the instructions on the attached Zoom Meeting Quick Start Guide. Please note that your microphone is automatically muted; if you wish to talk, you can request permission by clicking on the “raise hand” button
Dear Members, FAO celebrates its 75th Anniversary and 2020 World Food Day (Grow, Nourish, Sustain Together) on Friday 16th October 2020. The event can be viewed on webcast by clicking on the following link: http://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/5363/icode/<http://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/5363/icode/>
The event starts at 2p.m. Rome time when the Director-General Qu Dongyu will be joined by Ambassadors and heads of the Rome-based UN Agencies and His Holiness Pope Francis, the President of the Republic of Italy and the UN Secretary-General. Session 1 will focus on “Our actions are our future”.
Dear Members, As announced by our President, Edward Seidler, in the previous message, please find attached the brochure on Fifty Years of History of FFOA.
As previously announced, our annual General Assembly meeting is now confirmed for Wednesday, 28 October from 9.30 to 13.00 hours, to be held virtually using Zoom. Please consider this message your invitation to attend. One week before the GA, members having an email address will receive a reminder with the specifications to join the ZOOM session.
This email to inform the FAO, WFP, IFAD and ICCROM Retirement Community that Aurelio Marcucci, FFOA Vice President, FAFICS Vice President and a leading member of the UN Pension Fund died yesterday 2 August 2020.
We hope that you are well and coping with the current very hot spell if you are in Italy. Many of you will already be on vacation and for those still to go, we wish you a safe, restful and healthy holiday.
As already indicated in other Flashes, the FFOA will not be functioning in August, except that emails will still be monitored.
Dear Members, We hope you are all well and keeping safe. We have been informed today that:
Cigna will continue to waive the patient share on covid-19 medically necessary inpatient and outpatient tests and treatment until 31st October 2020, Tests still require to be prescribed by a doctor.
We hope you and your families will all have a healthy and happy summer.
Dear Members, We trust you are all doing well and that you and your loved ones are safe and well.
Following the FFOA webinar with Cigna on 12th June, a number of issues were raised requiring clarification and FFOA is presently taking up these issues with the RBA managements.
One issue we are seeking clarification on is the requirement by Cigna for pre- authorization for hospital visits AND Tests which could exceed $/ € 400 in Italy and in all other countries e.g. USA, Australia etc.
We are glad, that the complete lockdown, which was imposed on us as a result of the pandemic Covid-19, is over, although of course there are still a number of restrictions, with which we live since early March. Particularly we as pensioners, who belong to the group which is most at risk, should behave in a responsible way and follow the advice from the authorities to avoid being affected by the virus. The existence of the virus does not only have an influence on our personal life, but not surprisingly has a significant impact
FFOA Zoom Flash No. 2 – Recording of the 1st FFOA Zoom Webinar (Giugno 2020)
“ Distant but Close"
Medical Insurance and Cigna
Dear Members,
FFOA successfully held a Zoom Webinar on Friday 12th June with some 100 virtual attendees. Cigna Staff ( Valeria Cara, Mike Roy and Solange Fichet) answered questions and provided explanations on various issues. Social Security staff from all Rome Agencies were also present in the Webinar to hear member views and concerns.
[cid:84FF91E98C447C949623AA640B69A9DE5A459B3E@1] FFOA Zoom Flash No. 1 - Invitation to the 1st FFOA Zoom Webinar (June 2020) “Distant but Close” Medical Insurance and CIGNA
Speaker: Valeria Cara, CIGNA Moderator: Ed Seidler, FFOA Date: 12 June 2020 at 15:00 (Rome Time) Webinar link: https://fao.zoom.us/j/91675869255 WebinarID: 916 7586 9255 Password: 378117
DISCLAIMER: Access to this webinar is password protected. We remind you that you are responsible for not sharing, disclosing or otherwise divulging this access and its content to any third party without written consent of the FFOA.
Dear Members, Further to FLASH 57 which announced the Cigna/FAO Webinar on 28th May re Cigna Telehealth, we have now received the presentations from FAO Social Security and have pleasure to attach the 2 presentations explaining how to download the Ap and how to use Cigna Telehealth which is free and part of your BMIP policy.
With reference to the email sent last Thursday (21/5), we remind you of the next session appointment:
Date: Today, Friday 29/5 – At 18:00 (Roma time)
Link del Meeting: https://fao.zoom.us/j/91832243137
Password: 123456
Language: English
Once you enter the zoom meeting, please provide your FFOA Member Number.
DISCLAIMER **
Access to this virtual meeting is password protected. We remind you that you are responsible for not sharing, disclosing or otherwise divulging this access and its content to any third party without written consent of the FFOA.
Dear Members, Due to the invasion of the invisible COVID-19 into Italy our lives changed into becoming like hermits. We became regulated by lockdown directives resulting in restricted mobility for our own benefits. Within the confines of our homes, in quarantine, we have gone through many experiences which could be unique, humorous, extraordinary and worth sharing.
We are operating in difficult times and your Executive Committee (ExCom) is keen to enhance its contacts with members to not only inform them but also to hear their views and needs. Face to face gatherings will not be possible for some time to come. In order to achieve these targets, the ExCom has started searching on the market for 'virtual' communication techniques to enhance contacts with our members.
Dear Members, We trust that you are all keeping well and are a little more relaxed with the lifting of some restrictions by the Government of Italy. One however has to remain alert to the ongoing and persistent dangers and ensure that the gains achieved over the past 9 weeks can be sustained. Social distancing is imperative to ensure our safety.
FAO has informed us that during Phase 1 of the re-opening of the country (starting on 4th May 2020) that FAO Headquaters and services will still not be accessible to retirees and visitors and only a skeleton staff will be present. This restricted access and reduced staffing will continue into Phase 2 ( from 18th-29th May). Phase 3 ( June- September) will also have limited staffing and services; it is expected that some new ' normalcy' will only be achieved as September. Specific information is as follows:
The Rome-Agencies have informed us that CIGNA has extended the waiver to COVID-19 related treatment under BMIP/MMBP until 31 May 2020, so as to cover 100% of costs.
As we continue navigating the COVID-19 pandemic as one big family, we are pleased to announce that Cigna under our BMIP/MMBP plans, will further expand coverage for COVID-19 treatment by waiving participant’s cost-sharing for COVID-19 treatment.
Your Executive Committee extends best wishes to all FFOA Members in Italy and globally. We wish you and your loved ones good health and happiness under the dreadful Covid-19 pandemic which is seriously impacting the lives of so many these days. Your former Agencies and especially FAO has reached out to FFOA to express their concerns for their former staff, now retirees, and has said that they are there to address any concerns that our community might have.
In addition please note that due to COVID 19 and the closure of the Rome-based Agencies, the Executive Committee has decided to postpone the 50th General Assembly that was due to take place on 27 May at IFAD. A new date will be announced soon.
Dear Members, These are difficult times for all of us and your Associaton is with you and will continue to update you on the latest developments. We have been informed by the UN Pension Fund and FAFICS that:
Pensions will continue to be paid regularly and without interruption.
The assets of the Fund have been negatively impacted by the recent turmoil in stock exchange markets around the world but the very positive status of the Fund's investments at the end of last year provides space for recovery as soon as the markets will improve.The liquidity of the Fund remains good.
A Decree has just been issued by the Italian Ministries of Health and Transport.
All individuals entering Italy by any means must communicate their entry to health authorities and self-isolate themselves on voluntary basis for 14 days.
Exception is made for those entering Italy for work related reasons for a period no more than 3 days, to be extended up to 5 days.
Impact of the COVID-19 situation on Pension Administration
To reduce the risks of COVID-19 transmission, the United Nations Secretary-General and UNOG Director-General have required all United Nations staff in New York and Geneva to telecommute full-time and work remotely. In alignment with these measures, effective from Monday 16 March to Sunday 12 April 2020, all UNJSPF staff in the New York and Geneva offices will work remotely five days a week.
Newsflash 41 COVID-19 Movement Restrictions and Q&A
Dear Members, we have received the following information from FAO and WFP regarding the Covid-19 Outbreak: 1. Movement Advice [image.png] [image.png] The above can be accessed in ITALIAN from the Mintistry of Interior website.
2. Q&A re Cigna coverage of Covid 19 provided by WFP in response to queries received:
Dear Members, We are informed by WFP and FAO Social Security Offices that: In accordance with the latest Italian government guidance against the threat of the coronavirus (covid-19) and the consequent restriction of non - Skeleton Staff in all Rome based Agency premises, CIGNA would like to guarantee the continuation of the Local Representatives service by offering phone consultations or WhatsApp video calls.
Newsflash 35 CIGNA MEDICAL INSURANCE CARDS- UPDATE
Cigna has sent medical insurance cards out to most members. The names on the cards have however been incorrect in some cases, especially for spouses. The names CIGNA has used are given by the 3 Organizations to Cigna. If the cards need to be corrected members should email or write to their Organizations as follows: FAO- [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> IFAD- [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> WFP- [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> Indicating what the correct name should be. You are advised to attach a copy of ID or passport of the person for whom data needs to be updated
Some members have for various reasons not received the Welcome and Access emails from CIGNA. Although you have not received the welcome email, you can still activate your profile and access your membership card through the activation link https://www.cignahealthbenefits.com/en/plan-members<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cignahealthbenefits.com%2Fen%2Fplan-members&data=02%7C01%7C%7C1ccfdcd2c9a04f8f528e08d78ac0a1a9%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637130432251460769&sdata=NPdr05Gbcq1epA1exLY1CDJ8LJhTmj%2BuTzO1kdKVXa8%3D&reserved=0>. Please note that your reference number is composed of: 477/WFP Index Number 476/ IFAD Index Number 480/ FAO Index number You should include 0 (zeros) when these are part of your index number Members should receive their plastic membership cards and benefits guide by 15 January 2020 For any hospital admissions , you can reach Cigna via telephone as
WE HAVE THE PLEASURE OF INFORMING YOU THAT THE FFOA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 23RD DECEMBER 2019 UNTIL 6TH JANUARY 2020. THE ASSOCIATION WILL RE-OPEN ON TUESDAY 7TH JANUARY 2020.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FFOA
P.S. FAO OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FROM 23 TO 27 DECEMBER AND 1 JANUARY 2020
CARE SOCIE/CARI SOCI,
SIAMO LIETI D'INFORMARVI CHE L'UFFICIO DELLA FFOA SARA CHIUSO DAL 23 DICEMBRE 2019 AL 6 GENNAIO 2020. L'ASSOCIAZIONE RIAPRIRA MARTEDI 7 GENNAIO 2020.
FAO retirees that may receive an e-card or a plastic medical card from CIGNA with incorrect names or spelling should email [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> to give them the correct name...CIGNA is not the right party to correct the name as it is the Agency which gives CIGNA the names.
FFFOA Newsflash 33-- Medical Premiums for FAO Retirees
Following the FAO tender fpr BMIP/MMBP medical insurance which was awarded to CIGNA, FAO has now announced the Insurance Premiums for 2020 in Admin Circular 2019/10.
Following FFOA representations to FAO management to re-adopt the former system of flat premiums and the apportionment of premiums on a 50-50% basis as is done by WFP and IFAD, premium rates are now shared equally between the participating former staff member (or their survivor/s) and the Organization; The new arrangement is considered both more transparent and equitable and restores the Organization's contribution to meeting medical
Dear Members, If during the month of December you come to Rome, please come to the Party that FFOA has organized for its members, as per the attached invitation.
As indicated in Flash 30, FAO has chosen CIGNA as its medical insurance provider as of 1 January 2020.
A Town Hall meeting will be held on Tuesday 26th November in the GREEN ROOM ( Blding A,1st floor) at FAO Headquarters at 9.30 am where FAO Social Security and CIGNA personnel will explain to FAO retirees the transition arrangements and procedures related to the move from Allianz to Cigna.
Dear Members, Please find attached the Provisional Report, Doc No. FFOA/ GA/2020/03, which must be approved by the next General Assembly to be held on 27 May 2020 at IFAD. Kind regards,
Dear FFOA Members, Please find below details on how to access the new UNJSPF Monthly Newsletter which will update you on Pension Fund developments. Kind regards, FFOA Secretariat
Secretary-General appoints Ms. Rosemarie McClean of Canada as Pension Benefits Administrator of the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF)
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, following the recommendation of the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Board, has appointed Rosemarie McClean of Canada as Pension Benefits Administrator of the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF).
Dear Members, Please find attached the Newsbrief 108. In addition please note that, as announced in the attached Newsbrief , the FFOA will be closed from 1st to 31 August inclusive. We wish you a good reading,
Please take note that due to the event of the FAO Conference from 22 June to 1 July access to FAO HQ will not be permitted to pensioners and visitors. Therefore the FFOA Office will be closed.
Dear Members, We have the pleasure of informing you that the Forty-Ninth Session of the General Assembly will take place on Wednesday, 29 May 2019 at 09.45 hours in the Auditorium of WFP Headquarters. Do not miss this important event; do come to support your Association! You will find attached the relevant documents except for Draft Report of the 48th Session of the General Assembly (FFOA/GA/2019/03) already mailed on 12 September 2018 as well as the Newsbrief 107. You are kindly requested to bring your documents with you, as additional sets cannot, unfortunately, be made available at the meeting. We
FFOA Members Spouses and Prospective Retirees come join us at our Monthly Coffee Morning *FFOA Update on Social Security-Medical Insurance *Special Invitees from FAO Social Security Ms. Akiko Ikeda, Senior HR Officer, Ms. Olvido Escudero
Wed. 03 April - 10:30-12:30 ETHIOPIA ROOM (FAO HQ) C 285
FFOA Social & Recreational Activities Group for U.N. retirees
ASM Premiums were increased in Jan 2018 following the contract extension with Allianz. The premiums had not been increased during the period 2015-17. All retirees were informed by their Administrations (FAO,WFP,IFAD) of the increased premiums for 2018-2019 in circulars sent out to them. WFP and IFAD premiums were increased by some 4.5% whilst premiums for FAO retirees were increased in percentage terms of their imputed full pensions (incl any lump sum taken). For FAO retirees the following increases in premiums for 2018- 2019 were made: Single. 1.5% increased to 1.81% with max deduction of Euro 232.35 or $ 286.98 Single
FFOA members who are retirees from the Rome Based Agencies have recently (27/2) received an email from the FAO Director of Human Resources, Mr. Fernando Servan, informing them that retroactive deductions for their undercharged After Service Medical Coverage medical premiums from their UNJSPF pensions will start as of March 2019. This has caused some confusion and concern among members and this FLASH Bulletin will attempt to clarify matters:
Rome, 21 December 2018 Dear Members, As we come to the end of the year we want to thank you for the support you have given to FFOA and wish to remind you that if you are an "annual member" your membership is about to expire. During the past year, your membership and participation has helped the Association to: * Maintain our office that is open 5 days a week from 9:30 to 13:00 hours, with a "Duty Officer" from your Executive Committee in attendance from 10:00-12:00; * Protect your interests and follow up on all queries and concerns with
THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND WE HAVE THE PLEASURE OF INFORMING YOU THAT THE LAST WORKING DAY OF THE FFOA OFFICE IS FRIDAY 21ST DECEMBER 2018. THE ASSOCIATION WILL RE-OPEN ON MONDAY 7th JANUARY 2019.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FFOA
[Risultati immagini per christmas trees png]
CARE SOCIE/CARI SOCI,
COME AL SOLITO LE FESTIVITÀ SONO ALLE PORTE. AL RIGUARDO, SAPPIATE CHE L'ULTIMO GIORNO LAVORATIVO DELLA FFOA SARÀ IL 21 DICEMBRE 2018. L'ASSOCIAZIONE RIAPRIRÀ LUNEDI 7 GENNAIO 2018.
We were kindly asked by FAO Social Security to circulate the attached newsletter among FFOA members , so that you can be aware of the updates involving Social Security and regarding the Medical Insurance.
MESSAGE ADDRESSED TO MEMBERS WHO DID NOT VOTE YET FOR THE RENEWAL OF THE FFOA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
Dear Members, your contribution with the vote is very important for the organization of the FFOA; tonight you will receive a gentle reminder to vote electronically.
In order to facilitate your choice, we are attaching the List of potential Candidates. Thank you for supporting FFOA!
Please find attached the document ELECTION/2019-2021/03 which due to an oversight was not dispatched together with the Newsbrief 106 as it should. Best regards,
This message is for FFOA members who are also members of the United Nations Federal Credit Union. One of our members, Sino Tesfamariam, is standing for election. I know him personally as a good hard worker with excellent experience in this area, so attach his bio details below for your consideration. Please note that this is not an official FFOA endorsement, but simply brought to your attention for whatever consideration you may deem appropriate. Regards,
Dear Members, Please find attached the corrigenda to the financial documents of our Association which supersede the ones sent on 13 April 2018 with the invitation to the General Assembly. You are kindly requested to bring them with you at the General Assembly as, unfortunately, additional copies will not be available at the meeting.
Dear Members, According to our Pension Fund website, Pensioners/Beneficiaries on the US Dollar track will receive a 2.2% cost-of-living adjustment to their pensions with effect from April 2018, so you should see it at the end of this month.
With generous regards. Alan Prien, FFOA President.
Dear Members, According to our Pension Fund website, Pensioners/Beneficiaries living in Italy on the Euro track will receive a 2.2% cost-of-living adjustment to their pensions with effect from April 2018.
This is the first cost-of living increase since April 2013.
Our thanks go to Pino Pace and Giorgio Eberle for following up these matters with the ISTAT office.
Dear Members, Please ignore the message sent yesterday on the same subject. This is the correct version of the letter and documents: “Dear Members: As already mentioned, the Forty-Eighth Session of the General Assembly will take place this year on Wednesday, 30 May at 9.45 hours in the Green Room of FAO Headquarters. Do not miss this important event; do come to support your Association! You will find attached the relevant documents except for Draft Report of the 47th Session of the General Assembly (FFOA/GA/2018/03) already mailed on 12 September 2017. You are kindly requested to bring your documents with
Dear Members, As already mentioned, the Forty-Eighth Session of the General Assembly will take place this year on Wednesday, 30 May at 9.45 hours in the Green Room of FAO Headquarters. Do not miss this important event; do come to support your Association! You will find attached the relevant documents except for Draft Report of the 47th Session of the General Assembly (FFOA/GA/2018/03) already mailed on 12 September 2017. You are kindly requested to bring your documents with you, as additional sets cannot, unfortunately, be made available at the meeting. We look forward to seeing as many of you as
Dear Members, If you are interested please note that the deadline for booking is 31 March 2018. Best regards, Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
GRAN TOUR della SICILIA
17 – 27 Maggio 2018
CATANIA – TAORMINA - le GOLE dell’ALCANTARA - l’ETNA
Pleasure to inform you that there are still few places available Should be interested please contact Laura (3397720747) as soon as possible.
Kind regards Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
The information and materials sent from time to time by the FFOA are purely informative. FFOA does not operate, control or endorse any information, products or services provided by third parties.
Please find attached the detailed Programme related to the tour in Sicily from 17 to 27 May 2018, organized by Sandro Palombieri. Kind regards. Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
Please find attached the detailed Programme related to the "Tour in Norvegia". Kind regards. Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
Below please find a proposal for a Tour to Sicily from 17 to 27 May 2018, organized by Sandro Palombieri (Tours Service Roma). To be noted that Euro 600 should be paid at the time of booking and the date for remaining payment is 27 April. We hope that some of you will be interested in this trip which includes some of the most interesting parts of Sicily. Kind regards. Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
Below please find an interesting “Tour in Norvegia” with the possibility of also visiting Stoccolma, Helsinki and an interesting “Crociera nel Baltico”. This is the perfect season to visit Scandinavia where you will find daylight practically 24 hours. Kind regards. Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
[Immagine correlata]
TOUR in NORVEGIA Estensione facoltativa a STOCCOLMA ed HELSINKI e CROCIERA nel BALTICO attraversando l’ARCIPELAGO di 24.000 isole
Herewith an interesting trip to Scotland from 18 to 26 June visiting: Edimburg, Aberdeen, Aviemore/Loch Ness and Glasgow. As you can see this trip is proposed by Laura who like to take our members abroad.
Also please note the deadline for booking i.e. 31 March 2018.
Kind regards Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
Dear Members, Please find attached a week-end in Val D’Orcia, proposed by Laura (If by chance you are in Italy). Kind regards. Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
The information and materials sent from time to time by the FFOA are purely informative. FFOA does not operate, control or endorse any information, products or services provided by third parties.
Dear Members, Following the decision of the three Rome based Agencies to extend the contract of Allianz Worldwide Care (AWC) for the administration of the medical plans of the three Agencies for two years (2018 and 2019), there will be an adjustment in premiums to be paid by staff and retirees. The increase in premiums to be paid by staff of WFP and IFAD will be approximately 4.4% on both the Euro and US Dollar plans (the original increase was to have been 7.5% but has been reduced to 4.4% by using funds in the profit sharing account). Retirees' contributions
Dear Members, If by chance you are in Rome, you may wish to enjoy this theatre production (in English) of Sheridan’s play “The Rivals” taking place at Theatre San Genesio in Rome in January and February. Details in the flyer below.
Kind regards Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
One of our members has drawn my attention to the Tropical Agriculture Association (TAA) which, though based in the UK, has a broad membership concerned with the role of agriculture for sustainable development throughout the world. Briefly, TAA brings together people and organisations from developed and less-developed countries to enable them to contribute to agricultural policy, development, research, education and skills in support of equitable and sustainable agriculture and natural resources management. TAA has five regional branches in the UK and other branches in the Caribbean, India, Pacific region, Thailand and Zambia/Southern Africa, all of which organize regular meetings and
Dear Member of the FFOA, Attached hereunder is the most recent newsletter from our Pension Fund. The most important aspect is that our investments have done very well this past year. We send this to all of our membership for whom we have email addresses, even though some of you might receive it if the PF itself has your up-to-date contact. Presumably there is no harm if you receive it twice. Allow me to wish you all good health in 2018. Alan Prien President
Amazing as it may seem, another year has come and gone. We want to remind you that your annual membership in FFOA is about to expire.
During the past year, your membership and participation has helped the Association:
* Maintain our office that is open 5 days a week from 9:30 to 13:00 hours, with a "Duty Officer" from your Executive Committee in attendance from 10:00-12:00; * Protect your interests and follow up on all queries and concerns with the medical insurance provider, Alliance Worldwide Care. The transition from the previous partner was not
With these announcements we are well into 2018. We hope you will be able to consider these interesting trips here in Italy. Please note the dates for booking, which are quite early, but apparently necessary in order to get good hotels.
With this last note from the Social Activities Group we wish all our Members and our Travelers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Before we turn around it will be year 2018. You may wish to consider the following outings proposed by Paola [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> whom many of you already know.
I wish to take this opportunity to wish all our members availing themself of all our outings and all our membership a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
On the occasion of the celebration of the World Food Day, Monday 16 October 2017, pensioners are kindly asked to not come to the premises in order to collaborate with heightened security. No visits will be allowed.
Thank you for your attention to the matter and collaboration. FFOA
As already announced in the Newsbrief 102, the FFOA Office will be closed from Monday 31st July through Friday 1st September 2017 for the usual summer holiday. It will reopen on Monday 4th September.
We take this opportunity to remind you about our Coffee Morning meeting which will take place on Wednesday 6th September, as per the attached sheet. As usual you are all welcome.
As internet users, we have to be continuously mindful of our accounts, emails and browsing activities and be on the alert for suspicious links or sites. During peak holiday periods, we should be particularly careful.
When users feel overly secure they are more likely to open an unfamiliar email, enter their personal details (e.g. full name, email addresses, password), or click on sites carelessly.
Dear Members, We are pleased to inform you that starting from 21 June 2017 and subsequently every 1st Wednesday of the month, Members will have the opportunity to take advantage of the legal service provided by the Studio Bonanno as per the attached document.
Dear Members, Due to an unexpected technical problem, the on-line links of the GA Recordings are temporary unavailable. We will get back to you soonest. Sorry for any inconvenience. Thank you for your patience.
Dear Members, Should you wish to view the recording of the 47th General Assembly, it is now available "on-line" in the following Dropbox folders: PART1: https://www.dropbox.com/s/66hfs3cdh1gu2sz/Part1.mp4?dl=0 PART2: https://www.dropbox.com/s/6ga653mvgdpupuf/Part2.mp4?dl=0 You will be able to either view or download two separate video files (mp4 format/size of each file is approx. 500MB). Should you have problems in downloading or viewing the videos remotely, the recordings are also available at the FFOA Front Desk, Room E005 (FAO HQs). Best regards, FFOA
Dear Members, Please find herewith attached a Corrigendum to our Financial Reports, submitted to you last April, to incorporate some suggestions made by our Reviewers. You are kindly requested to bring them with you at the General Assembly on the 31st May, as additional copies cannot, unfortunately, be made available at the meeting. Thank you.
Some confusion seem to have occurred regarding prevention of cancer screening tests.
The following has been clarified by Allianz:
- Mammography once every 2 years covered for females from 40 to 74 years of age - PAP Smear tests once per year covered for females from 21 to 65 years of age - Prostate cancer colon-rectum tests covered for people over 50 years of age yearly
Dear Members, As already mentioned, the Forty-Seventh Session of the General Assembly will take place this year on Wednesday, 31 May at 9.45 hours in the Italian Conference Room of IFAD Headquarters. Do not miss this important event; do come to support your Association! You will find attached the relevant documents except for Draft Report of the 46th Session of the General Assembly (FFOA/GA/2017/03) already mailed with Newsbrief No. 99. You are kindly requested to bring your documents with you, as additional sets cannot, unfortunately, be made available at the meeting. We look forward to seeing as many of you
Dear Members, As some of you said that you did not receive the Newsbrief 101 I am recirculating it . In addition please note that the documents of the General Assembly will be distribuited separately from the newsletter to avoid overloading your in box. Gabriella
From: FFOA Sent: venerdì 17 febbraio 2017 11:01 To: [log in to unmask] ([log in to unmask]) <[log in to unmask]> Subject: FFOA - FLASH NO. 8 - INFORMATION FROM ALLIANZ
Dear Members,
1) Gemelli Hospital, Rome, with whom Allianz has established a direct billing agreement has activated a dedicated line for ambulatory treatments for members covered by Allianz as follows:
06/88805563 Monday to Friday 9 – 13 hours AND 14 – 16 hours
The FFOA is wishing all our members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Attached are also happy holiday wishes from Laura (Curiosando nel Mondo) with a programme for the first months of the New Year. You may wish to note them in your calender.
Kind regards Joan Smidt Social Support and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ALL OUTSTANDING MEDICAL CLAIMS FOR THE YEARS 2013 & 2014 MUST BE SUBMITTED TO VANBREDA/CIGNA BEFORE 31ST DECEMBER 2016. NO CLAIMS WILL BE ACCEPTED BY VANBREDA/CIGNA IF RECEIVED AFTER 31ST DECEMBER 2016. BEST REGARDS FFOA
SAPPIATE CHE TUTTE LE RICHIESTE DI RIMBORSI MEDICI RELATIVI AGLI ANNI 2013 & 2014 DEVONO ESSERE PRESENTATE A VANBREDA/CIGNA PRIMA DEL 31 DICEMBRE 2016. NON SARANNO ACCETTATE DA VANBREDA/CIGNA LE RICHIESTE DI RIMBORSI RICEVUTI DOPO IL 31 DICEMBRE 2016 CORDIALI SALUTI
Dear Members, Attached please find for your information FLASH No.7 on UNJSPF Emergency Fund for eligible earthquake-stricken retirees in Central Italy. Best regards,
Dear Members, Pleasure to inform you that the 31 October 2016 shall be observed as official holiday at FAO Headquarters consequently the Association will be closed.
Further to my earlier message, it has just now come to my attention that we have a member of FFOA (who will soon become one of the editors of our NewsBriefs) who is also a candidate in the UNFCU elections.
George Aelion has been a strong supporter of the UNFCU in his roles with both the WFP Staff Association (President) and as one of the Vice Presidents of CCISUA (the Federation that represents, UNICEF, UN Secretariat, UNHCR and many other UN Organizations). In those roles, he worked with the Executive Staff on strategic policy issues and thus has
Another election is coming up for UNFCU board seats. This year we have two colleagues , Sino Mariano ( Tesfamariam) and Theresa Panuccio, who are both well known to many of us, who are up for election.
Sino was for many years in the Accounting Division of IFAD and the Manager of the IFAD Credit Union & thus is well versed in these type of financial operations.
" We are pleased to advise you of the composition of your new Executive Committee, following the recent elections, with the highest number of votes recorded that we can recall.
President: Alan Prien Vice-President : Georgia Shaver Vice-President : Giuliano Pucci Treasurer: Gianni Monciotti General Secretary : Marco Breschi
The above are the five officers mentioned in the FFAO Articles of Association.
In order to facilitate the selection of the preferred candidates for those who have not yet voted, we circulate again the Candidate Profiles (attached) which had been distributed last month together with Newsbrief 97. You can use them by responding to the 2nd reminder you received last MON or to the next reminder you will received next MON.
Dear FFOA member, As per our rules and procedures, please find attached important documentation for the upcoming FFOA General Assembly (May 2015). Be sure to read the documents carefully, and bring them with you to the General Assembly - at FAO on 27 May, starting at 9:30 AM. Your participation is important!
I appreciate your keeping me up to date with matters concerning the new medical insurance system. I look forward to any new developments on this matter.
Please use my email address [log in to unmask] My mail address is Hackergasse 5/9/7 1100 Wien, Austria Thanks, Maria Strauss
Von: FFOA members english language WORLDWIDE [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Im Auftrag von FFOA Gesendet: Freitag, 16. Jänner 2015 12:47 An: [log in to unmask] Betreff: Medical System
Bonjour, Merci de bien vouloir m'envoyer la version FRANÇAISE des documents existants éventuellement Salutations cordiales
BEN ROMDHANE Amor 10, Rue des Roses 2070 La Marsa Tunisie Tél : 00216 98 458 077 [log in to unmask]
Envoyé de mon iPad
> Le 16 janv. 2015 à 15:21, Maria Strauss <[log in to unmask]> a écrit : > > > Please use my email address [log in to unmask] > My mail address is > Hackergasse 5/9/7 > 1100 Wien, Austria > Thanks, > Maria Strauss > > Von: FFOA members english language WORLDWIDE [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Im Auftrag von FFOA > Gesendet: Freitag, 16. Jänner 2015 12:47 > An: [log in to unmask] >
This is to inform you that the pictures, taken at the IFAD by Alex Van Arkadie, are available on our website at http://www.fao.org/ffoa/main-menu/media-library/2014-ga-pictures/en/
By clicking in the middle of the picture you can enlarge it on the screen and then control theìr flow by clicking on the arrows that appear on the sides of each of them.
This is to inform you that the presentation delivered at the recent FFOA 2014 AGA by the Mr. Arvizu CEO , UNJSPF has been loaded on our web (Main Menu>>>Pensions>>>> 2014 FFOA AGA).
As previously announced, IFAD will be hosting the 44th session of the FFOA General Assembly.
On 28 May as of 9:30 (GMT +2:00) you may follow the proceedings via webcast at http://webcasting.ifad.org/ffoa.
In order to connect it will be sufficient for you to click on the above link. If desired, you would also be able to send comments via Twitter by using the #ffoa14 hashtag.
Following the documentation that you have just received from FFOA for the General Assembly, this is just to inform you that the documents can also be found on our Web (page Newsbriefs & Doc.s>>>GA documents).
Please find attached all the documentation for the upcoming General Assembly which this year will take place at IFAD on 28 May 2014. Please note that the document GA 2014 No. 3 is not attached as it was forwarded to you last September with the previous Newsbrief.
FFOA would warmly welcome as many participants as possible at this Assembly which is always very interesting and, moreover, very informative for many of you.
Just a reminder that the FFOA Office will be closed for Christmas from Saturday 21 December until 6 January 2014. The office will open again on Tuesday, 7 January 2014.
Best wishes to you all and hope to see many of you at the FFOA party this afternoon at 16:00 in the Casa Bar on the ground floor of building "D".
FFOA has the pleasure to send you herewith the Newsbrief No. 89 for your perusal and interest. Under separate cover we will send the Provisional Report of the General Assembly that took place at the WFP in May.
" Message from: Theresa Panuccio" <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: FFOA message
Dear Alan
Buon ferragosto! and I hope you are enjoying August.
First of all I am writing to thank all of the FFOA colleagues who have voted for me in the UNFCU elections for Board of Directors, their support was very important in helping me get elected.
As this year's annual letter from the new Chief Executive Officer has been delayed by printing problems, we are hereby circulating it electronically to all members. As it is also available in French & Spanish, anyone wishing to have one of these versions may request same by replying to this message with the request.
This is to inform you that the very interesting Presentation delivered by our colleagues from the UNJSPF at the FFOA AGM of 29.05.2013 is now available on our website at http://www.fao.org/ffoa/main-menu/pensions/en/
A revised version will be available soon to include a response to other two important questions: 1. Explanation of the two-track Estimates 2. Possible Residual Benefit and designation of beneficiaries for retirees with no spouse or children.
In connection with the e-mail that was sent out this morning regarding the latest arrangements for the FFOA/AGM, please find attached another copy which contains an important addition.
With kind regards,
Deborah Ryan FFOA Office Assistant
AGM Web Streaming. For those who may be interested to follow the AGM over the internet, please consider that a web-streaming service will be arranged. Access to this service will be availble from 9:30 hrs (Rome time) at http://wms1.wfp.org/wfpvideo (Username: wfpext, Password: Stream_Ext) until the end of the AGM session only. Please remember that MAC users will need to download and install
The 2012 Financial Reports that will be discussed at the next GA of 29th May 2013 have been certified by our Reviewers and are attached for your information.
Please bring them with you at the GA meeting together with other documents so as to have them at hand when they are discussed. The 2012 Financial Report and the Financial Status asat 31.12.2012 replace the corresponding versions that you have received together with the rest of the documentation for the next GA some time back. They will be loaded on our website togehter with the signed version of their
As mentioned in the Newsbrief 85, I have the pleasure to send you herewith the Provisional General Assembly Report, 2012, which I hope you will also find interesting and informative.
With kind regards, Deborah Ryan FFOA Office Assistant
Kindly be advised that the office of FFOA will close on Monday 30 July until Friday 31 August 2012.
The office will re-open on Monday 3 September 2012.
On behalf of the President and the FFOA Executive Committee, we wish all our Members very "Happy Holidays" and look forward to being in contact with you again in September.
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: 16 June 2015 17:00 To: FFOA Subject: I: FW: FFOA Annual General Assembly Pictures - new message
Unfortunately the test I tried from home worked ONLY because I was signed on the site.
So, the link works if the user is logged-in.
The steps to be followed therefore are as follows:
From: Giorgio Eberle [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: 15 October 2014 11:37 To: Seidler, Edward (AGS); Marco Breschi; [log in to unmask]; FFOA Cc: Stephen Dembner; pino pace; Annemarie Waeschle; [log in to unmask]; Bruno Pisani; Sabatino Salvi Subject: Info on new medical insurance arrangements
This is the edited/revised version of the announcement to our members incorporating proposed changes to the text.
This is to remind you that the 45th Session of the FFOA Annual General Assembly will be held in the Green Room - FAO HQs on 27th May 2015 starting at 9:30.You are most welcome to attend.
We are pleased to inform you that the representative of the FAO DG will be Denis Aitken, ADG ad interim, who is also the Chair of the JAC/MC (Joint Advisory Committee on Medical Coverage). Also attending will be Kamila Guseynova of Social Security & a Representative of ALLIANZ.
With reference to below email, this is just to draw your attention to the 2nd page of the mentioned letter. Life members and those who have already renewed their membership should not take into consideration the reminder for renewal.
Sorry for any misunderstanding.
Kind Regards.
Gabriella Sborchia FFOA Desk Assistant
From: FFOA Sent: venerdì 23 dicembre 2016 10:47 Subject: FFOA - NOTICE OF IMPENDING MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL DEADLINE
As already mentioned, the Forty-Sixth Session of the General Assembly will take place this year on Wednesday, 25 May at 9.45 hours in the Auditorium of WFP Headquarters. Do not miss this important event, do come to support your Association!
You will find attached the relevant documents (12 files) except for Draft Report of the 45th Session of the General Assembly (FFOA/GA/2016/03) already mailed with Newsbrief No. 96 of September 2015. You are kindly requested to bring your documents with you, as additional sets cannot, unfortunately, be made available at the meeting.
Dear Members, in order to view or download the recording of the 47th General Assembly without any disruption, we are now in a position to provide "on-line" access by selecting one of the following options: 1st OPTION** PART1: https://www.dropbox.com/s/66hfs3cdh1gu2sz/Part1.mp4?dl=0 PART2: https://www.dropbox.com/s/6ga653mvgdpupuf/Part2.mp4?dl=0
Dear Members, This is to inform you that the pictures taken at the last AGA are now available on our web (Media Library page). http://www.ffoa-web.org/main-menu/media-library/2015-ga-pictures/en/ Regards. Anna Maria Certelli FFOA Desk Assistant
As already mentioned, the Forty Third Session of the General Assembly will take place this year on Wednesday, 29 May at 9.45 hours in the Auditorium of WFP headquarters. Information on how to best reach WFP is given in Newsbrief 87. Do not miss this important event, do come to support your Association!
FFOA has received the following information regarding the 2012 Certificate of Entitlement. As FFOA has received many calls about this from its Members, the following explanation should make the situation clear.
With kind regards,
Deborah Ryan FFOA Office Assistant
This is to update you in respect to the status of the 2012 Certificate of Entitlement (CE) process.
I have the pleasure to send you herewith the latest Newsbrief No. 84 along with two election documents which we are sending again as reminders. One is the description of the election process and the other one is the Nomination Form for Candidates. Every Member who is eligible for election should consider his/her candidature. It is particularly emphasized that the Executive Committee would benefit from the presence of more ladies on the Committee.
Flash 39 - Covid-19 Closures at FFOA and Agencies with immediate effect
Dear Members,
Following the announcement by the Government last night to declare all Italy as a Red Zone and to impose restrictions on movements and gatherings etc. the Rome Based Agencies (FAO, WFP and IFAD) are, as of today, implementing their business continuity plans and all Agency Headquarters will essentially be under lockdown and only have essential staff (100 or so) on duty with everybody else expected to telework from home. The result of the above is:
Share your ideas on happy retirement Like all the experiences of life, even the arrival of retirement can be experienced differently: there are those who consider it a rebirth because finally there is time to dedicate to what could not be done before, or the desired things. This happens when work has been the core of one’s existence. There are so many ways to live this phase in a positive way. Please share one such personal experience in brief. Everyone would love it. You may write in English or Italian, addressed to FFOA, attention to Newsbrief’ Coordinator. This will enrich
I have the pleasure to send you herewith the Newsbrief No. 85 which we hope you will enjoy reading and find interesting together with the List of Candidates for the Election of the new Executive Committee.
As you may recall, this year is an election year for the FFOA. Newsbrief 85 includes important information on how to cast your vote for the new Executive Committee (2013-2015) and we would like you to read pages 5 and 6 particularly carefully.
I have the pleasure to send you herewith the above-mentioned Newsbrief which I hope you will find both interesting and informative. The documents for the General Assembly on 29 May 2013 in the WFP Auditorium will be sent under separate cover.
I am pleased to "deliver" the March 2015 issue of your quarterly Newsbrief 95, filled with useful and entertaining information specially prepared for pensioners from the Rome-based agencies.
This issue is accompanied by important documents for the upcoming General Assembly in May, and the Executive Committee elections, which will be held in November.
FFOA has just received the very sad news of the passing of Edouard Saouma, former Director-General, in Beirut on Sunday 2 December.
Please see below for further information concerning a mass that will be celebrated.
With kind regards,
Deborah Ryan FFOA Office Assistant
We all lament the sad decease in Beirut on Sunday 2 December of Edouard Saouma former Director General . You may wish to inform FFOA members that a mass will be celebrated in his memory at 11h00 on Sunday 9 December at 11h00 at the Parocchia Maronita via della Porta Pinciana , 18. Thank you
1 . The General Secretary of FFOA, Marco Breschi, and i have been attending meetings in Vienna this past week where our Pension Board is presently meeting. 2. We have also met with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sergio Arvizu, and the Representative of the Secretary General for our Investments (RSG), Carolyn Boykin, in Rome, on 24 June, subsequent to our General Assembly where those who attended had the opportunity to question the CEO.
Please find attached the information, in various languages, provided by Cigna explaining how to request prior approval and direct payment for outpatient treatment.
> > Communiqué from the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Board* > > At the conclusion of the 63rd UN Joint Staff Pension Board meeting > that took place at the IAEA Headquarters in Vienna, Austria from the > 14 - 22 July 2016; following seven days of presentations, > considerations and debates the Board drafted the following statement for immediate release. > > Vienna, Austria: 22 July 2016 - The United Nations Joint Staff Pension > Fund is in a sound financial position and has a positive actuarial > status as confirmed
With reference to your e-mail message, FFOA would like to confirm its message advising that the Claims Processor for the BMIP/MMBP plans will change to Allianz Worldwide Care from 01.01.2015.
More information will be provided between now and the end of 2014. FFOA is requesting the FAO Administration to provide more information as soon as possible, which they have promised to do.
FAO and ICCROM retirees are invited to a 'Town hall' meeting on Tuesday 26th November 2019 at 9.30am to be informed and briefed on the Medical Insurance arrangement to be implemented as of 1 January 2020. Briefings will be given by FAO Social Security and the new insurance company CIGNA.
FLASH 26 AFTER SERVICE MEDICAL PREMIUMS...UPDATE Following action by FFOA in challenging the increase in medical premiums for FAO retirees as of March 2019 and the retroactive collection of underpayment of premiums from January 2018 to February 2019, we are happy to announce the following news which was officially announced at the FFOA Coffee morning of 3rd April: 1. FAO has admitted that mistakes were made in calculating the correct premium increases which were not in line with those previously announced in FAO Admin Circular 2018. You can check premiums information by referring to FFOA Newsflash 16 (Feb 18) and
Following the submission by one of our ex-colleagues of a nice report on one of his trips back in Australia where he retired, the idea came up of publishing these reports (that we will be calling "Cards from ....") as they are submitted by our members.
The "Members' Experiences" page of our website has been identified as the repository of such cards http://www.fao.org/ffoa/main-menu/members-experiences/en/
Dear Members, If you are interested please note that the deadline for booking is 31 March 2018. Best regards, Joan Smidt Social and Recreational Activities Group FFOA Executive Committee
[Immagine correlata]
TOUR in NORVEGIA Estensione facoltativa a STOCCOLMA ed HELSINKI e CROCIERA nel BALTICO attraversando l’ARCIPELAGO di 24.000 isole
12 luglio – 29 luglio 2018 un itinerario completo ed esclusivo, un’esperienza indimenticabile !! un’accurata selezione dei luoghi da non perdere in una meravigliosa, sconfinata, suggestiva e selvaggia regione!
Please find here attached the List showing Profiles of Candidates to the next Election for the Executive Committee 2016-2018. The ballot paper will be made available later on.
Subject: letters from 1. FFOA president & 2. FAFICS president on PENSION MATTERS
Dear FFOA members, 1. some of you may have heard about allegations or rumors regarding the operations of our Pension Fund (PF). 2. i would like to give you some reassurances. 3. firstly, the CEO (chief executive officer) of the PF, Sergio Arvizu is responsible for the income & disbursements of the PF, ie receiving contributions from serving staff & Organizations which participate, and paying benefits to those of us who qualify for pensions. 4. completely separate from the CEO is a different division of