Retain Minister at all Costs, say Older Learners
4 Feb 2009 06:46 PM
Older people today called on the government to retain the Minister for Older People 'at all costs', and to even consider expanding her remit.
While students today protested about the possible re-introduction of third level fees, 250 eager older learners were also defending their right to education, at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin.
Earlier in the day the Minister launched a report 'Don't stop me Now', on the lifelong learning needs of older people, which was produced by AONTAS and supported by Age and Opportunity.
The need to retain a dedicated Minister for Older People was one of a five point Manifesto drawn up by those in attendance. The Manifesto was prepared for the lead up to the local and European elections which take place later this year in June. Other issues raised included the need for specific funding of learning initiatives for older people, and more daytime courses. A one stop shop of information for older learners should also be set up.
Education should help maintain a sense of dignity, and purpose, for older people, was the final part of the Manifesto. 'We've started, and there's no stopping us now', said one older learner present.
