Justice Minister meets new Commissioner for Older People

Date published: 22 June 2016

Justice Minister Claire Sugden today met with the newly appointed Commissioner for Older People in Northern Ireland (COPNI).

The Minister welcomed the opportunity to meet with Eddie Lynch at an early stage to discuss a range of issues affecting older people, including fear of crime and financial abuse against older people.

Claire Sugden said: “As Minister of Justice I am committed to doing all I can to help reduce fear of crime for older and vulnerable people and to increase their confidence and feelings of safety in their homes and communities. My Department’s Community Safety Strategy has a number of measures specifically linked to this aim and we work closely with the PSNI and other statutory and voluntary agencies to tackle this very serious issue.

“I particularly welcome Mr Lynch’s commitment to increasing awareness of financial abuse of older people and the impact it can have on their lives.

“My Department has had a positive working relationship with the Office of the Commissioner, and I look forward to continuing this collaboration to ensure the best outcomes for older people, helping them to feel safe and supported in their homes and communities.”

Eddie Lynch said: “I was delighted to meet with the Minister of Justice to discuss protections for older people and in particular the issue of financial abuse. I look forward to working together with the aim of creating a society in Northern Ireland which respects, values and protects our older people.”