I am sure many older workers would welcome the news that the Government plans to raise the re-employment age from 65 to 67 by 2017 ("Re-employment age will rise to 67 by 2017"; Aug 24).

Being gainfully employed gives older workers the opportunity to have key social support.

This will enable them to keep their minds actively engaged and, at the same time, help them cope with rising costs.

With their wealth of experience, they can easily be mentors to younger workers.

Public sector officers who have retired from service could be offered job opportunities in all government departments - be it on a full-time or part-time basis.

If the civil service leads by example, the private sector will be enticed to do likewise.

Raymond Anthony Fernando