UK Government: We are going to beat ageism

By : Ian Mc Cartney
Hoover, April 10, 2002

Today the Government set out its commitment to beating ageism and eradicating older people stereotypes.

Speaking at the UN Assembly on Ageing in Madrid Ian McCartney, Pensions Minister, said: "It is over 20 years since the world last got together to discuss age issues. Time for words is over - it is action that will now count. So I am delighted that we are moving the age agenda forward.

"The UK Government is planning to take an active role over the next few days in finding the best way forward for how we internationally will tackle the challenges of an increasing older population.

"The British Government has not stood still. We have ploughed ahead with a whole raft of actions and worked with older people to make a real difference to their lives.

"Today I pledge that we will continue to work at breaking down the stereotypical attitude towards older people and fight ageism.

"I have two main goals. I hope that in the next 20 years: - there will be opportunities for all citizens - young and old alike - there will be an end to discrimination against older people in employment and access to other public services.

"Older people are not the world's problem they are part of the solution to the world's problems." Mr McCartney continued: "Ageism is wrong and the time has come to bin it.

"Life truly begins at 50. And I should know now that as at the age of 50 I have become a grandfather for the 8th time last weekend."