04/11/2008
Older People Get Advocate
There's a new voice speaking out for older people in Northern Ireland.
The former head of the Equality Commission, Dame Joan Harbison (pictured) has been appointed as Older People's 'Advocate' with Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Jeffrey Donaldson jointly announcing the appointment yesterday.
They said this is an interim measure pending the establishment and appointment of a regular Commissioner for Older People.
Both ministers met with Dame Joan at Parliament Buildings yesterday to congratulate her on her appointment, which will run from December 1.
Mr Kelly said: "Minister Donaldson and I are committed to addressing the issues which affect older people and today's announcement clearly demonstrates that we are delivering on our 'Programme for Government' commitment to provide a strong, independent voice for older people.
"I have no doubt that given Dame Joan's experience and commitment she will make a significant contribution towards tackling those issues which are causing concern for older people."
Mr Donaldson added: "This is an important development for all older people in Northern Ireland - particularly given the current economic downturn and the problems faced by older people in dealing with rising costs.
"Dame Joan will help us to not only identify and address the current problems faced by all older people but she will also provide us with independent advice on what needs to be done, based on her extensive experience of working with older people and the many age sector organisations," he said.
(BMcC)
The former head of the Equality Commission, Dame Joan Harbison (pictured) has been appointed as Older People's 'Advocate' with Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Jeffrey Donaldson jointly announcing the appointment yesterday.
They said this is an interim measure pending the establishment and appointment of a regular Commissioner for Older People.
Both ministers met with Dame Joan at Parliament Buildings yesterday to congratulate her on her appointment, which will run from December 1.
Mr Kelly said: "Minister Donaldson and I are committed to addressing the issues which affect older people and today's announcement clearly demonstrates that we are delivering on our 'Programme for Government' commitment to provide a strong, independent voice for older people.
"I have no doubt that given Dame Joan's experience and commitment she will make a significant contribution towards tackling those issues which are causing concern for older people."
Mr Donaldson added: "This is an important development for all older people in Northern Ireland - particularly given the current economic downturn and the problems faced by older people in dealing with rising costs.
"Dame Joan will help us to not only identify and address the current problems faced by all older people but she will also provide us with independent advice on what needs to be done, based on her extensive experience of working with older people and the many age sector organisations," he said.
(BMcC)
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