Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)

Deputy Collins referred to people who are 90 years of age. The proposal is that in 2014 the standard pension age would become 66 years. The only person aged 90 I saw recently who is actively working was pretty impressive and is probably a strong recommendation for people remaining very active, but active in a way that is appropriate to their physical condition, age and inclinations. The critical issue is offering people opportunities and options.

This country has a good and solid old age pensions system which has evolved through collective social agreement between all the political parties and people of no political party over a long period. However, this country faces really serious demographic changes for which we must make provision. We are also in a desperate economic hole. The Government did not develop this economic hole, but we will not go into that at present. We must try to make the best possible use of resources. There are some people who wish to have the opportunity to work for longer. Deputies must also take account of women who might have a reduced number of working years due to their commitments to caring for young and older people. The pensions system must be designed for a wide range of people.

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