Is It Time To Scrap Retirement Ages Completely?

Should your employer be allowed to tell you when it’s time to retire?

On this episode, Niall opens the phone lines to discuss whether mandatory retirement ages should become a thing of the past.

The debate comes as new legislation has come into effect in Ireland giving many employees the right to refuse compulsory retirement before the State pension age of 66. Workers whose employment contracts require them to retire before 66 can now formally notify their employer that they wish to continue working. Employers must consider the request and can only refuse if they can objectively justify enforcing the retirement age. The changes are designed to give older workers greater choice and flexibility, while helping bridge the gap to the State pension.

With people living longer and remaining healthier than ever before, should age alone determine when someone’s career comes to an end?

Supporters of abolishing mandatory retirement say experience is invaluable, many older people still have plenty to contribute, and in an ageing society the economy needs skilled workers to stay in employment for longer. They also argue that forcing somebody out of work simply because they reach a certain birthday is outdated and amounts to age discrimination.

Others disagree. They believe mandatory retirement creates opportunities for younger workers, helps organisations plan for succession, and recognises that some jobs become more physically and mentally demanding with age. Critics also argue that older employees staying in the workplace longer could slow career progression for younger generations.

So where do you stand?

Should retirement be a personal choice based on your ability to do the job, or should there still be an age at which it’s time to step aside?

Niall hears from callers on both sides of one of the biggest workplace debates facing Ireland today.