SENIOR CITIZENS Care of the elderly and improved pension provision is also a priority for me. I support the introduction of free personal care and free nursing care for our senior citizens. I am opposed to the latest proposal to make dementia sufferers pay for treatment which is currently available on the NHS. Similarly, I believe that those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis should have access to new, life-altering anti-TNF medications without having to wait for up to four years to receive this new treatment.

The DUP also believes that pensioners should receive a substantial increase in the basic state pension and we support the introduction of legislation to prevent discrimination against older people in our society. In addition, we believe that there should be a comprehensive community safety strategy to combat the effects of crime on our senior citizens with a 'no tolerance' policy towards those who engage in anti-social behaviour against the elderly.

I will continue to work closely with organisations like Age Concern and Help the Aged to ensure that the rights and entitlements of our senior citizens are protected and enhanced.