Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this morning elaborated on the PN's electoral pledges that would benefit the elderly. 

He said the €300 allowance for 80-year-olds who live in their own homes would be increased to €500 and extended to 78-year-olds.

Dr Gonzi said the PN would continue to provide a quality leap if it were to be reelected, particularly thanks to a revision of the pensions system to remove discrimination for those who were eligible for other pensions such as the British Service Pension or the pension given by private companies like Shell and Barclays.

Similar discrimination would be removed for widow pensions to encourage them to keep working. Meanwhile, pensions for invalids would be tied to the size of their family, said Dr Gonzi, pointing out that most abuse had been stamped out and the overwhelming majority of invalids were "genuine" cases.

He said several steps were taken throughout this legislature to leave more money in the pockets of the elderly, even with the latest Budget that was defeated. The PN's electoral programme built on these initiatives to leave even more money in people's pockets.

"But for this to happen we have to be elected once again, change the laws and pass a Budget," he stressed.

A recent EU-wide study showed that Maltese elderly people had the among the best quality of life, with women placing first and men second, he said.

This was thanks to several initiatives and services, including those provided by the private sector.

He was speaking to supporters at Villa Arrigo in Naxxar.