Minister for older people should be a priority

AMIDST the justifiable public concern at the make-up of the new cabinet and ranks of junior ministers regarding gender, there seems to be little debate at the decision of the new government not to appoint a junior minister for older people.

The decision defies logic. The Programme for Government features a considerable amount of policy relating to older people, including the commitment to complete and implement the National Positive Ageing Strategy. But, in the absence of a minister to steer this through, who will ensure the Government addresses the issues of ageing in a joined-up, comprehensive way? Ireland has had a Minister for Older People in each administration since Dr Tom Moffatt’s appointment to the position in 1997. But now, at a time when governments around the world are intensifying their planning for their ageing populations, our government decides not to appoint a minister with responsibility for this important policy area.

There has been no explanation for the decision and no public uproar.

If Ireland is to start planning for the challenges posed as the percentage of our population aged over 65 rises from the current 11% to 25% by 2060, then that task must start now. The challenge is not just about providing for the needs of the current generation of older people, but to plan for the needs of all who hope to grow old in Ireland.

Eamon Timmins

Age Action

Dublin 2