Pensions row over age rise (From Warrington Guardian)

Pensions row over age rise

PRISON officers at Risley Prison have spoken out against proposals to extend their retirement age by an extra five years.

They are unhappy that, under new government guidelines, prison officers will see their normal pension age rise from 60 to 65.

In July 2003, the government produced a pensions white paper confirming its hope to introduce the move by 2006.

Police and fire officers could retain their current pension age as their work is considered as front-line and requires physical capabilities.

But the Prison Officer Association (POA) argues that its members perform similar duties and should be treated in the same way.

Mick Pimblett, a prison officer based at Risley, told the Guardian that there were serious safety implications if the change was implemented.

He said: "You can't be fighting young fit lads at 65. I can't see a 65-year-old officer dealing with an armed robber.

"Equally, a 65-year-old prison officer couldn't complete the obligatory fitness test and their contract would be finished. People nearing their retirement age make plans. They will have to put everything on hold."

MP Helen Jones visited the prison last week and promised to relay the officers' concerns directly to the prison minister.