Diolch, Dirprwy Lywydd. I broadly welcome the statement from the Government today. People in Wales are generally living longer; it is estimated that in 20 years, a quarter of the population may be over 65. With an ageing population, publishing a strategy that makes life easier for older people is something that any responsible government should be doing, from the practical side of things. Looking after our most vulnerable is not just practical, however; it is also a moral thing to do. We have a duty to look after our most vulnerable in society, and some of our elderly people are among the most vulnerable.

Just last week, we had Carers Rights Day, so this strategy is quite timely. The National Pensioners Convention Wales say that older unpaid carers often find it difficult to access support as information and advice services continue to move online. There is a real danger that older people could be digitally excluded here and in other ways too. How will the Government ensure that information regarding services and support will be made widely available and accessible in all formats? Does the Minister agree that improved integration of health and care services would improve the accessibility of information, and that further work needs to be done to support unpaid carers and to ensure their physical and mental well-being?

The pandemic has also changed the way in which we access health services. Many consultations have moved online, which means many older people are left unable to access essential services unless they are information-technology proficient. This was backed up by an Age Cymru survey of older people's experiences in Wales during the COVID-19 lockdown. It found that 40.5 per cent of responders had issues with accessing GP services, and 6 per cent responded that they could not access GP services at all. I'm keen to ensure that those people who are not online, for whatever reason, and those who prefer face-to-face consultations are not left languishing in the queue, receiving a second-class service. Will the Government, therefore, implement a blended approach that offers appropriate access to those who need and/or prefer face-to-face consultations? 

It is well established that some people who have Welsh as a first language lose their ability to communicate through the medium of English as they get older. I'm pleased that this strategy acknowledges that this matter is important for all services, but this is especially the case in health and social care, because the quality of the care may be compromised by ineffective communication. Could the Minister, therefore, provide an update on the current level of Welsh language provision in the health and care service? Does the Government believe that there are enough Welsh-speaking staff currently working in health and care services?

In summary, for this strategy to be effective, it must be interwoven throughout Government. Will all departments be engaged to create an age-friendly society? Will this plan, laudable in print, have the necessary budget and backing to be put into action? Will outputs be monitored, reviewed, and lead to changes if necessary? For the sake of older people, I sincerely hope so. Diolch yn fawr.