Life Begins at 50!
Last updated: 07/09/2006 - 10:40
Today's older generation are a bonus to society and not a burden on it, says pensions minister Ian McCartney.
"We older people have a lifetime of invaluable experience that must not be wasted," Mr McCartney, 50 this year, told the annual general meeting of charity Age Concern.
"We are not just a part of society; our skills, knowledge and experience are the foundations for a better society. Put simply, we older people are the bee's knees- and this has been recognised by the Government. The prime minister has now decided to set up a Cabinet committee on older people."
As deputy chair of the committee, Mr McCartney described how the group aims to build on the work of the existing inter-ministerial team, by playing a key role in co-ordinating policies affecting older people across government. The committee will also have strong links and support for the government initiative Better Government for Older People, which was launched in June 1998.
Mr McCartney, as the 'ambassador' for older people, described his determination to deliver the Government's objective of helping all pensioners share in the rising prosperity of the nation whilst making sure that pension provision is affordable, secure and sustainable over the long term.
He said: "We have recognised that by lessening older people's financial concerns we can help them play a more rewarding role in society. We have already taken steps to help older jobseekers through the New Deal 50+. Whilst UK Online centres offer older people the opportunity to familiarise themselves with new technology."
Government schemes for people of 60 and over include winter fuel payments, a minimum income guarantee, and for the over 75s, free television licences. A pension credit will also be introduced in April 2003, aimed at rewarding pensioners with savings.
Speaking in his 'official' capacity as an older person Mr McCartney assured the meeting: "We will make sure we are valued in the important role we play in helping build a better society. Life really can begin at 50."
More information available in Careers