Age NI calls on the NI Executive to ensure that ageing is a key driver

Age NI calls on the NI Executive to ensure that ageing is seen as a key driver in this Programme for Government.

With great change comes opportunity and nowhere is this more evident in the roles that older people play – as entrepreneurs, volunteers, carers, grandparent, childminders, mentors, employers, employees and campaigners to name a few. However, stereotypical views and perceptions of older people as dependent, frail and in need of services and support can obscure the potential of older people.

The current Programe for Governement and Equality Impact Assessment display a sense of these stereotypical views of older people. The focus for older people is on benefits, arts, free transport and community safety. This paternalistic attitude masks the contribution of older people and therefore constrains the PfG and subsequent departmental policy initiatives in its direction for older people.

We recognise the current climate of reduced public expenditure and the need to focus on the economy. We understand that this presents significant challenges for the Northern Ireland Executive, but we believe that this is an opportunity to achieve high quality sustainable services and polices for the long term. Delivering long term sustainable change through a focus on removing the barriers and realising the opportunities associated with our aging population can deliver transformational change in Northern Ireland.

 Read our full response to the Draft Programme for Government 2011-20015: Building a Better Future