Minister finally goes on record with commitment on National Positive Ageing Strategy

Minister Kathleen Lynch TD finally went on the record today with a commitment in the Seanad to publish the National Positive Ageing Strategy during 2012, the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations.

Patricia Conboy, Director of Older & Bolder welcomed the commitment saying “The Minister has responded to older people and their advocates who have campaigned for six long years for the publication of a National Positive Ageing Strategy.  This campaign has been sustained through two Programmes for Government and over the tenure of three Ministers for Older People.  Older & Bolder was delighted to hear Minister Lynch say on the public record that she is convinced she will publish the strategy by October 2012. 

The Minister made her commitment at a Seanad debate on the rights of older people.  Ms. Conboy added “The fact that there was cross-party and Independent support during the Seanad debate for urgent action on the National Positive Ageing Strategy is especially encouraging.  Right now a planned approach to population ageing is vital. With reduced resources, Government cannot afford to make poor decisions.”