A pensioners' "parliament" is to be established in Northern Ireland to highlight the concerns of the elderly.

Members will be elected from regional assemblies, with the two-day parliament being held on June 8 and 9.

Nearly 500 people have been chosen to attend seven regional meetings during March and April.

Issues such as services for the elderly are expected to be discussed during the first gathering of its kind in Northern Ireland for those aged over 60. Lobby group Age Sector Platform is organising the meetings.

Michael Monaghan, from Age Sector Platform, said: "With budget cuts becoming a reality for everyone in Northern Ireland, this process should clarify for government, politicians and service providers the issues that older people here are particularly worried about.

"We hope that this information will help those with the power to make the right decisions in the best interests of our older population."

The Belfast and Londonderry meetings are full but places are still available in Omagh.

During each meeting older people from the area will debate issues of most importance to them, with an expert panel on hand to provide advice and information on any complex points raised.