Mary White (Fianna Fail)

There is a serious issue at stake. Some 425,000 of our people are over the age of 65. Approximately 25% of these, over 100,000 people, wish to work after the age of 65. We need an urgent debate on the issues surrounding compulsory retirement at 65, including the issue of gradual retirement.

Ageism is a serious issue in Ireland. Most deaths occur among those aged over 65 but many die needlessly of treatable illnesses. The issue of aging and ageism is as serious for this country as that of childcare. I call for an urgent debate on the issue.

I am glad you are smiling at me now, a Chathaoirligh.