Rabbitte hits back at 'insulting' Tanaiste comments

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte has described as "deeply insulting" remarks made by the Tánaiste last week that relatives, and not taxpayers, should pay to keep older people in retirement homes.

He says the comments ignore the contribution made by elderly people to the development of the economy.

Addressing the National Association of Widows in Dublin, Mr Rabbitte said the Government must recognise that retired people have earned their right to draw on the support of the community.