The Ministry of Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism recently hosted its second Age
Symposium, bringing together key stakeholders, community organisations, charities and service
providers to continue discussions on issues affecting older persons in Gibraltar.
The symposium was opened by the Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, the Hon
Christian Santos GMD MP, and featured the Hon Sir Joe Bossano KCMG MP in his capacity as
Constituent MP for Senior Citizens.
Sir Joe Bossano spoke about the ongoing and valuable contributions of older persons to the
community and of the importance of keeping active both physically and mentally later in life. He also
spoke about upcoming changes to the pensionable age for men.
Sir Joe explained that the implementation and outcome of the UK-EU treaty would allow Gibraltar to
proceed with bringing the retirement age for men down to 60, matching the age for women.
The session reviewed feedback received from the inaugural Age Symposium and provided updates on
progress made against the action points identified. Participants also discussed priorities and
opportunities for further collaboration to enhance the wellbeing, inclusion and quality of life of
Gibraltar’s older population.
Representatives in attendance included the Gibraltar Health Authority, the Care Agency, Citizens
Advice Bureau, Waterport Day Centre, Gibraltar Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society (GADS), Physical
Activities Association for Mature Older Adults (PAAMOA), GibSilver, members of the Jewish
community, and other charities, NGOs and community organisations.
Minister Santos said: “Our ageing population brings with it both opportunities and responsibilities. This
symposium provides an important platform for listening, sharing experiences and working together to
ensure that older persons in Gibraltar remain active, valued and supported members of our community. I am
grateful to all stakeholders who continue to contribute their expertise and commitment as we take forward
the priorities identified through this collaborative process.”
The Ministry thanks all participants for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continuing
this important work through ongoing engagement and partnership.
The next Age Symposium will take place in the autumn and anyone interested in attending should
contact the Ministry of Equality on Tel: 200 66819 or on email equality.events@gibraltar.gov.gi.
