Pensioners will take what State doesn’t need

WE read with interest Michael McDowell’s comments that the Government does not need the €2.7 billion generated annually by stamp duty.

As advocates on behalf of older people, may we suggest that any funds unaccounted for could be used to raise the basic State pension?

Even if the Government honours its election programme and increases the basic State pension to €200 in this year’s budget, it will not lift many pensioners above the poverty line. Equally, older people living alone are among the most vulnerable when it comes to poverty, and would benefit hugely from an increase in the living alone allowance.

Or how about bolstering the country’s patchy community care service? This would not only help improve the quality of life of tens of thousands of older people by enabling them to continue living independently in their own homes, but it would also take pressure off the health services.

Eamon Timmins

Head of Advocacy and Communications

Age Action Ireland

30/31 Lr Camden Street

Dublin 2