THE pension age increase is "inevitable" given increased life expectancy, the DUP has said.
As part of its deal to support Theresa May's minority Tory government, the DUP secured agreement that the `triple lock' on pensions would be maintained across the UK.
The policy, introduced in 2010 by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition, guarantees to increase the state pension every year by whichever is the higher of inflation, average earnings or 2.5 per cent.
The Tories' general election manifesto had proposed ditching the 2.5 per cent element, but the move was opposed by the DUP.
Responding to yesterday's announcement that an increase in the pension age was being brought forward, East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson said it was "an inevitable consequence of increased life expectancy and improvements in the general health of the population".
"As the cost of pensions increase and the real value of the pension improves it is right that the government engages in long-term thinking about future pension arrangements," the former Stormont finance minister said.
"It is only proper that plenty of notice be given so that those affected can make any additional provision which they wish to make and also know with certainty the age when they can expect to retire from work."
He added that he hoped the government will learn from past mistakes and write to everyone affected explaining the impact of the change.
However, Sinn Féin's Elisha McCallion last night condemned the decision, saying it would "undoubtedly lead to increased rates of poverty".
The Foyle MP also criticised the DUP for propping up Theresa May's government.
"The DUP represent a region that has the lowest life expectancy in these islands so today's announcement again exposes the folly of them giving the Tories a blank cheque to continue their destructive austerity policies," she said.
