Rise in Waterford pensioners at risk of poverty labelled 'deeply concerning'

The rise in retired people at risk of poverty in Waterford has been described as ‘deeply concerning’ by Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness.

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%.

Cllr McGuinness said: "The most recently figures on poverty and social inclusion show an alarming rise in the increase in retired people at risk of poverty. 

"This deeply worrying statistic is backed up by a huge amount of anecdotal evidence of older people finding themselves in real financial hardship. I see it in my clinics every single week. Its a national disgrace that people who have worked all their lives, raised their families and contributed to society are finding that the state has turned its back on them in the midst of a cost of living crisis.

Cllr Conor McGuinness with Waterford Age Friendly Ambassador Ann Cusack at the Older People's Council AGM in Dungarvan's Park Hotel

"This was clear to be seen at last AGM of the Waterford Older People's Council in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan, where I was the only public representative to attend and to listen to members of the Council and to older people from across Waterford. 

“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,” Cllr McGuinnes said. 

 “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,” Cllr McGuinness said.