Currently, only 42 per cent of older people eligible for rate relief actually receive benefit. Elders who own their own home are even more unlikely to take up benefits.

Key recommendations from the report include:

• automated benefit payments for elders
• an overhaul of the current application process
• a closer working relationship between Government and the voluntary and community sector

The report was written in response to a request from the Department of Finance and Personnel. Finance Minister, the Rt Hon Peter Robinson says, the department will consider all the recommendations and act on them. Adding,

'I welcome the publication of this report. I made it clear following the review of the rating system which took place last year that urgent action was needed to improve take-up of rate reliefs, particularly among the elderly.'

A full copy of the report is available on the Department of Finance and Personnel website.

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