90% of elderly ‘at risk of poverty’

NEARLY nine out of 10 older people could be at risk of poverty if welfare supports are cut in next December’s budget, an alliance of non-government bodies has warned.

The Older and Bolderalliance further claims the situation is even more precarious for older people living alone, where 96% would be at risk of poverty without such social supports.

The group claims any cuts to welfare and social supports would have a devastating effect on the aged, stating that more than 86% of older citizens would be affected by further cuts.

Speaking at the launch of the group’s ‘on the doorstep’ campaign, project director Patricia Conboy called on the Government to protect the welfare of older people.

“We want the Government and the opposition parties to commit to protecting the welfare of the most vulnerable groups of older people through the state pension, community care services and the benefits and allowances that assist people to remain living at home and involved in their families and communities.”

Older and Bolder’s campaign is in response to recent comments by Finance Minister Brian Lenihan that welfare supports for older people and other vulnerable groups in society may be cut in the winter budget.

The campaign involves nationwide public meetings over the coming weeks along with an intensive media campaign and the distribution of thousands of campaign cards to older people so they can raise issues with candidates and canvassers on the doorstep before June’s elections.

Ms Conboy also pointed out that in the run-up to the last general election, more than 30,000 older people called on all parties to commit to a national positive ageing strategy.

Older and Bolder is an alliance of eight groups committed to campaign for a positive ageing strategy.