By Isle of Wight Observer
The Solent Women against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) Island members gathered, in Ryde on August 29, to mark 10 years of campaigning for justice for thousands of 1950s-born women hit by state pension changes.
The group is part of the national WASPI campaign, which seeks compensation for women who say they were not properly informed about rises to their pension age.
Campaigners claim women were “betrayed” when Labour decided not to offer compensation, after an ombudsman ruling that they suffered injustice.
A High Court challenge against the decision is due in December. Group co-ordinator, Shelagh Simmons, said; “This anniversary is a recognition of our strength and solidarity, but also a reminder that justice is long overdue.
Despite betrayal by government, we will never stop fighting until every single one of the 1950s women receives the justice they deserve.” IW East MP, Conservative Joe Robertson, voiced “deep disappointment” at ministers’ failure to act, adding; “These women were blindsided by poorly communicated changes and deserve more than empty words.” Lib Dem Appley & Elmfield councillor, Michael Lilley, also pledged support, calling WASPI women “brave and courageous”.
Isle of Wight Observer