Deeply concerning that 1 in 5 retired people now at risk of poverty – McGuinness

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has labelled the rise in retired people at risk of poverty as ‘deeply concerning’.

Figures released by the government show an alarming increase of the number of retired people at risk of poverty from 11.9% to 19.1%.

Speaking to the Dungarvan Leader following the AGM of the Waterford Older Persons Council, Cllr McGuinness said:

“It was great to attend the AGM of the Waterford Older People’s Council in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan. I was the only public representative in attendance and I was glad to have the opportunity to listen to members of the Council and to older people from across Waterford. 

“Figures release this year show an alarming rise in the increase in retired people at risk of poverty in 2022.

“Pre-pandemic 1 in 10 retired people were at risk of poverty. In 2022 that spiked to 1 in every 5 people. This means many elderly people now live in very precarious situations – with all the stress and anxiety that brings.

“We have also seen a similar increase in the number of retired people living in consistent poverty. This is now close to 1 in 20, a substantial increase on pre-pandemic levels. That is deeply concerning.

“These figures are collected as part of the government’s performance-based budgeting. This shows a staggering failure to protect the elderly in our society that needs an urgent response.

“Sinn Féin have consistently raised the issue that many announced measures in last year’s budget, such as increases to the State Pension and the Fuel Allowance, would not take effect until January.

“This meant that many older people were left to wait through the winter months for much-needed supports, which undoubtedly will have contributed to the figures now being reported.”

“These vulnerable people, many single men, and many from the farming communities, are contending with cost-of-living increases and energy price hikes, on low fixed incomes. Many are also struggling with high private rental costs, due to the scarcity of appropriate affordable housing. 

“This government needs to step up to the mark, to curb this rise in poverty and to ensure our older and retired people can live with dignity.”