Ireland the best EU country in which to grow old – Burke

Ireland has been ranked as the best country in the EU, and one of the best countries in the world, in which to grow old, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Cork North Central TD Colm Burke is highlighting the Natixis Global Retirement Index published this week, which shows that Ireland has held its position from last year as the 4^th best country in the world in which to grow old.

“Fine Gael has always prioritised older people during our time in Government and will continue to do so, in particular protecting them as best we can from the cost-of-living crisis in the upcoming Budget.

“The Global Retirement Index shows Ireland is the best EU country in which to grow old. We hold our position from last year as the 4^th best country in the world in which to grow old, ranked just below Norway, Switzerland and Iceland.”

The report notes ‘Ireland stands alone with the largest gains in the GRI rankings over the past decade. It has rocketed from 38th overall in 2012 all the way to fourth this year.’

“Fine Gael will continue to prioritise older people in this week’s Budget. We want to increase payments for pensions, people with disabilities and the vulnerable. And we will ensure that older people are protected as much as possible from the cost-of-living crisis, particularly in the area of energy costs as we face into the winter. We are also working to lower the cost of healthcare in this country.

“Another positive move recently was the announcement by my colleague Minster Heather Humphreys of a major reform of the system – introducing for the first time ever a ‘flexible pension age’ model. This means that people will be able to continue to retire at 66 if they choose to do so – or they can continue working up until the age of 70 and draw down a higher pension.

“This new system will put the power in people’s hands and give them the choice in terms of what best suits their own circumstances.

“It also reflects the fact that people are living longer, which is a really good thing. Fine Gael will always prioritise and protect our older people and ensure that Ireland continues to be a great country in which to grow old”, Deputy Burke concluded.