Madam, - The sharp rise in the numbers of older people at risk of poverty and suffering consistent poverty highlighted by the Central Statistics Office this week requires urgent attention from the Government.
The number of over-65s at risk of poverty rose to 16.6 per cent in 2007, compared to 13.6 per cent the previous year.
The rise was most evident among older people living alone, where the numbers at risk of poverty jumped from 19.3 per cent in 2006 to 24.3 per cent last year.
The numbers of older people experiencing consistent poverty rose from 3.7 per cent to 4.3 per cent over the same period.
The figures highlight the need to ensure that social welfare payments keep track of the rising costs of living. This is especially important for older people living alone.
The fact that the Living Alone Allowance has not been increased since 1996 is contributing to poverty levels among this at-risk group of older people. The decision to freeze this means-tested payment for the last 12 years needs to be reviewed.
The importance of social welfare payments is highlighted by the fact that 96 per cent of older people living alone would be at risk of poverty without social welfare payments, compared to 24.3 per cent when these payments are included.
It is important to note that the CSO figures relate to 2007, before the current economic slowdown. The small increases in key payments such as the State pension and the fuel allowance in the October Budget mean that many older people will continue to struggle in 2009.
Given the funding crisis facing those running defined benefit pension schemes and the falling values being suffered by those with defined contribution pensions, there is a real urgency to address the issue of the State pension.
The Government must ensure the pension is at a level which will enable every pensioner to live with dignity and not be left choosing between buying food or fuel each winter.
Age Action believes the Government should index-link the State pension to the average industrial wage and work towards bringing it up to 50 per cent of this figure over the coming years. - Yours, etc,