13 January 2009
Immediate release
 
ELDERLY NEED GREATER SAY IN GOVERNMENT

Dumfries MSP Elaine Murray is calling on the Scottish Government to strengthen the voice of the elderly by including a champion for the elderly in the Scottish Government’s Cabinet.

The need for the involvement of an elderly champion at the highest level of decision-making has become apparent given the Scottish Government’s lack action to help those trapped at home by the recent icy conditions.

Scottish charity Age Concern has warned that older people might feel "too frightened to venture out" during the recent extreme weather.

Elaine Murray MSP said: "The recent weather has been difficult for all of us, but especially the elderly. I'm aware of constituents who have been trapped in their own homes because pavements have not been gritted, in some instances without company or the care they require.

"We know the Scottish Government failed in their response to the salt crisis in Dumfries and Galloway. They sat back until we were on the brink of totally running out of salt. Perhaps if they listened more closely to the voices of elderly people they would have been quicker to acknowledge the difficulties they faced.

"Of course, while the recent severe weather has highlighted the plight of the loneliness and isolation of some of our pensioners, these are problems faced by many throughout the year.

"By including a champion for the elderly in the Cabinet the views and concerns of pensioners could be directly expressed to Ministers."
 
ENDS
 
CONTACT - ANDREW MACKENZIE 07769206856