Over 130,000 have been registered for pay-outs in Bahrain once the government meat subsidies have been lifted.

Gulf Daily News reports that 117,000 were automatically signed up for the cash pay-out because they were already enrolled with the Social Development Ministry for financial support. Since online registration opened on Tuesday last, a further 13,000 have registered.

More are expected to register before October 1, when the government will scrap the subsidies.

Expats are not entitled the subsidy, which is being lifted as part of the government’s efforts to limit public spending, amid a falling oil price. Bahrain is expected to introduce further subsidy cuts over the coming years, including electricity, water and petrol.

Under the scheme, those eligible will receive BD5 ($13) per month in compensation, and BD3.5 ($9) for each adult dependant and BD2.5 for each child dependant.

“We don’t expect 100 per cent of those eligible to register despite being sure of an increase in the next few days,” said a CIO statement.

“It is not compulsory and we will give those interested advance payments (every three months), whenever the meat subsidies are lifted. There are families who don’t need compensation due to their financial capabilities and there is the condition that eligible Bahrainis should live in the country.”