Living longer – working longer? Ageing population and new workforce dynamics in Ireland

People aged 65 and over represent the fastest growing population segment in Ireland. The fact that more people are living longer – and in better health – than previous generations should be a ‘good news’ story. However, all too often the focus of attention is on the ‘problems’ of ageing associated with, for example, pension and health costs.

This seminar takes a very different perspective. It explores new opportunities opening for people at different stages of life with changing dynamics of work (paid and unpaid) and lifelong learning. As increasing numbers of older people decide to remain longer in the workforce – whether by choice or necessity – new prospects arise for individuals, educational providers, employers and businesses. A multi-faceted approach is required to address these matters. This seminar will involve short expert inputs with open discussion. It is designed to be of interest to a range of colleagues including: policy makers; employers; education and training providers; trade unions; businesses; researchers; and individuals.

Contributors include: Danny McCoy, CEO Ibec; Dr Mary-Liz Trant, Executive Director for Skills Development SOLAS; Professor Desmond O'Neill, consultant physician and Associate Professor of Medical Gerontology, TCD; Lalage Bown OBE, Professor Emerita, Glasgow University, international expert on education for adults; Professor Maria Slowey, Director HERC, DCU.

At 17:30 Professor Brian MacCraith, DCU President will launch Living longer, learning longer – working longer? Implications for new workforce dynamics, a report based on an analysis of relevant literature and expert interviews by Maria Slowey and Tanya Zubrzycki, Higher Education Research Centre (HERC).