Áine Brady, T.D., Minister of State with Responsibility for Older People, today launched the seventh annual "Say No to Ageism Week" and said that she was "convinced more than ever before" of the need to address issues of age discrimination in our society.

Ageism issues "loom large"

Speaking at the launch she described "the need to plan ahead now for an age-friendly society" and said that ageism issues had "loomed large" in recent public consultations on the National Positive Ageing Strategy.

She specifically mentioned issues and barriers to service provision for older people for example the prevalence of automated telephone services and internet customer care arrangements. She also highlighted difficulties experienced by older people in public spaces due to the lack of facilities catering for their needs for instance lack of seating and accessibility issues. She said that issues such as these can make older people feel unwelcome in society and excluded.

"Acknowledging not only the needs but the contributions of older people"

Angela Kerins, Chief Executive of the Equality Authority said, " it is vital that everyone in society play a role in proactively challenging negative attitudes to ageing and older people" and that we should "not only acknowledge older people's needs but also their contribution, skills and knowledge". She also called on the Minister to protect health services, such as home help, for older people.

Age Friendly Service Provision

The "Say No to Ageism Week" is an initiative developed by three organisations, the Health Service Executive, the Office for Older People and the Equality Authority with support under the European Community Programme for Employment and Social Solidarity - PROGRESS (2007-2013). Its aim is to raise public awareness about stereotyping of older people and to promote and support practical action for 'age friendly' service provision in key sectors.

This year's "Say No to Ageism Week" takes place from May 24th to 30th. For more information go to : www.equality.ie