The Ministry of Equality recently held its second Age Symposium.

A statement from the Government follows below:

The Ministry of Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism recently hosted its second Age Symposium, bringing together key stakeholders, community organisations, charities and service providers to continue discussions on issues affecting older persons in Gibraltar. 

The symposium was opened by the Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, the Hon Christian Santos GMD MP, and featured the Hon Sir Joe Bossano KCMG MP in his capacity as Constituent MP for Senior Citizens. 

Sir Joe Bossano spoke about the ongoing and valuable contributions of older persons to the community and of the importance of keeping active both physically and mentally later in life. He also spoke about upcoming changes to the pensionable age for men. 

Sir Joe explained that the implementation and outcome of the UK-EU treaty would allow Gibraltar to proceed with bringing the retirement age for men down to 60, matching the age for women. 

The session reviewed feedback received from the inaugural Age Symposium and provided updates on progress made against the action points identified. Participants also discussed priorities and opportunities for further collaboration to enhance the wellbeing, inclusion and quality of life of Gibraltar's older population. 

Representatives in attendance included the Gibraltar Health Authority, the Care Agency, Citizens Advice Bureau, Waterport Day Centre, Gibraltar Alzheimer's and Dementia Society (GADS), Physical Activities Association for Mature Older Adults (PAAMOA), GibSilver, members of the Jewish community, and other charities, NGOs and community organisations. 

Minister Santos said: "Our ageing population brings with it both opportunities and responsibilities. This symposium provides an important platform for listening, sharing experiences and working together to ensure that older persons in Gibraltar remain active, valued and supported members of our community. I am grateful to all stakeholders who continue to contribute their expertise and commitment as we take forward the priorities identified through this collaborative process." 

The Ministry thanks all participants for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continuing this important work through ongoing engagement and partnership. 

The next Age Symposium will take place in the autumn and anyone interested in attending should contact the Ministry of Equality on Tel: 200 66819 or on [email protected]