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The constitutional debate
03/06/2009
Older people have a vital role to play in determining Scotland's constitutional future, the 'All Our Futures' stakeholder conference in Edinburgh was told today.
Communities Minister Alex Neil said pensioner poverty in Scotland was shocking with 200,000 pensioners having incomes so low that they faced real problems participating in society.
The National Conversation debate examines the options for constitutional change such as independence or enhanced devolution.
Further constitutional powers for Scotland, Mr Neil argued, would ensure that older people receive a standard of living that supports dignity, freedom and social unity.
The Minister said:
"10 years on from the creation of the Scottish Parliament it is clear that change is needed. The Scottish Government values Scotland's older people and the contribution they have made, and continue to make, to our society.
"Our ability to tackle pensioner poverty is shackled by the current devolved constitutional arrangements. That's why it is crucial the National Conversation encourages pensioners to makes their views known.
"They are at the frontline and best placed to pinpoint the constraints the current devolution settlement places on their ability to address real problems."
A National Conversation on Scotland's constitutional future was launched by the First Minister on August 14, 2007, alongside the publication of a paper outlining different options for public debate and proposals for a referendum. Further information is available at: