An 80-year-old is among 153 people who have continued to work in the public service beyond 61 years of age.

The Prime Minister told Labour MP Helena Dalli in reply to a parliamentary question that 120 men and 33 woman have continued to work in the public service beyond retirement age.

Sixteen are aged 70 and over.

Dr Gonzi said the 153 were just 1.5 per cent of the employees who, according to ETC statistics have continued to work full time or part-time beyond retirement age.

He said such employees were allowed to continue working in the public service to ensure continuity when some officials are absent. Other reasons include a shortage of employees, particularly in the health sector, specialisation and because some of these persons hold positions of trust.

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