IndependentAge welcomes the appointment of Ruth Marks as Commissioner for Older People in Wales. This appointment will, we hope, help safeguard and protect the interests, rights and welfare of older people. It is important that older people are listened to and that their voice is heard in order to influence policy and ultimately effect the services they need. We further welcome that Northern Ireland is set to appoint a Commissioner for Older People this year, but call on England and Scotland to follow suit.