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<p>We recognise that it is important that the fundamental rights of people continue
to be respected throughout their lives and that the specific needs of older people
are recognised and respected.</p><p> </p><p>We have previously considered the merits
of introducing an older person’s commissioner. However, we believe that the duties
that would be covered by such a role are covered by work elsewhere in the system.</p><p>
</p><p>Establishing an older person’s commissioners would also have significant costs
associated with it. Net expenditure in the first year that Northern Ireland’s Older
People’s Commissioner was set up was around £101,674 in 2011-12 and has since increased
to £876,272 in 2017-18. Recent estimates indicate that there are around 33% more over
65s in England than in Northern Ireland, suggesting such a body would create significant
annual costs.</p><p> </p><p>The Government is committed to making this country one
of the best places to grow old in.</p><p>Across the health and social care system
in England there are already systems in place, that are able to listen to the voices
of older people and respond to their concerns.</p><p> </p>
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