Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

God bless him and save him if he is 79 years old. It is wonderful to see a man make such a significant contribution to politics, journalism and many other aspects of Irish life. As Senator White has said, Senator Maurice Hayes is a great example to people the length and breadth of the country of the types of contribution that can be made irrespective of age. He is probably the perfect example to us all to encourage older people to be active and involved. That a person has reached what used to be regarded as the retirement age is irrelevant.

The debate will help to further the issue of being positive concerning ageism and remaining active. It is significant that Ireland has an active retirement age group that is growing and does considerable work across the spectrum. When meeting groups that are actively engaged in all types of activity, including social, sporting and community activities, it is clear that they benefit from participation. For older people living in isolated communities or areas where they would not have much contact, the health benefits of such groups are significant.

Senator O'Toole's statement regarding how other countries' attitudes to older people and their contributions are different to our attitudes is relevant. The most important change we must make is an attitude change. I do not mind mentioning that a county development officer who has probably been one of Galway's finest public servants is being forced to retire by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment despite the recommendations of the board of directors. He wants to continue for another two years.