Welsh champion for elderly welcomed

Rhodri Morgan has welcomed the appointment of the first commissioner for older people in Wales.

The Welsh first minister announced on Monday that Ruth Marks, currently the director of the Royal National Institute of Blind People in the principality, will take up the first such post in the UK.

Wales was also the first nation in the UK to appoint a children's commissioner and Morgan said the devolved assembly government was now "breaking new ground anywhere in the world" with the equivalent champion for elderly rights.

"Wales was the first to appoint a children's commissioner to give children and young people a stronger voice and now we are the first to have a commissioner to champion the interests of older people," he said

He added that, while appointed by ministers, Marks would now be "completely independent from the government and can challenge government and other bodies as well" when she begins the job in April.

Marks said: "Wales proportionately has more older people than other parts of the UK.

"The numbers are set to increase and that's why I think it's so important Wales is leading the way.

"It is a cause for celebration that we are living longer and healthier lives, but that doesn't mean older people in Wales have no difficulties to face.

"Some older people may be struggling financially, others are unable to access the services they need, and many are isolated and lonely."