Ireland. ESRI says cheaper childcare and flexible work arrangements will keep women working longer
Cheaper childcare and flexible working is needed to bridge the gender pension gap and keep women in employment for longer, according to a leading think-tank.
The Economic Social and Research Institute (ESRI) will tell TDs and Senators today that there is a gender gap of 35pc for retired women compared to retired men.
Appearing before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Social Protection, Dr Claire Keane will tell politicians that cheaper childcare, flexible work arrangements and long-term care services are crucial to keep women working longer in their lives.
“Policies that seek to keep women in employment for longer eg affordable quality childcare, long-term care services and flexible work arrangements will also be important,” Dr Keane will tell the committee.
The committee will also hear how later retirement may postpone health problems for older people and ease pressure on the health service.
The think-tank will quote a US study which found that there were negative “physical and mental effects” from people who were forced to retire.
If people want to remain working longer, this may delay or postpone ailments, as well as ease pressure on the health service. “While many people may welcome retirement, others may experience negative impacts,” Dr Keane will say.
Read more @Independent
311 views
