STUC Assistant Secretary Dave Moxham said:
“We welcome the legislation which can provide older workers who wish it, the opportunity to continue their working lives.
“There is a lot of myth and misunderstanding surrounding the age discrimination legislation but if approached positively this can be good news for individuals and good news for business. But for this to happen individuals need to know their rights and business needs to engage positively with the spirit as well as the letter of the legislation.”
“Contrary to popular myth companies will still be allowed to insist on a retirement age of 65, or lower if they can objectively justify it. However, employees may apply to work for longer by agreement with employers. Once such a decision is taken the employee will be entitled to legal protections, which were not available before October 1st. However, a company will still be entitled to dismiss an over-65 worker on the grounds of their age provided that due notice is given.
“STUC is concerned that over-65 workers do not become more expendable workers. We are calling on employers who do agree to continue to employer over-65 workers to treat such employees in every way as a full and equal member of the workforce.”
Regulations are for young people too!
“Although we are disappointed that they age regulations will not prevent the Minimum Wage being paid at different levels there are significant protections for those who face discrimination in the workplace because of their youth.”
ENDS
For further details: Dave Moxham 0141 337 8100
NOTES TO EDITORS
TUC myth busters The ten point age regulation myth-buster can be found at www.worksmart.org.uk/agemyths