7 September 2022

All smiles at the end of the first in person meeting of the All Party Group on Ageing and Older People since 2019 held in Parliament Buildings on Wednesday the 7th of September. 

The agenda was focused on the cost of living crisis and its impact on older people. Members and stakeholders attending heard from Brenda Kearns from Age NI's advice line, from Jamie Miller of NEA (National Energy Action) and Kevin Higgins from Advice NI. Speakers' insights into the real and pressing challenge to older people on points such as accessing information impressed Members. Comments and questions were raised about the policy and strategic context for actions to mitigate or address fuel poverty and other pressures on households. A number of actions were proposed. 

Members in attendance:

• Claire Sugden MLA, Chair
• Colm Gildernew MLA, Vice-Chair 
• Stewart Dickson MLA, Treasurer 
• Harry Harvey MLA
• Sorcha Eastwood MLA
• Fiona McAteer attended to represent Kellie Armstrong MLA

Older people were amongst almost 30 stakeholders who attended in person and online and reflected lived experiences and key issues.