Plans to raise the pension age were met with strong opposition yesterday from those in manual labour jobs.
Rob Brehaut started his apprenticeship at Verdellis Construction two years ago when he was 16.
'I think it is wrong and obviously it's a young man's trade – it's not for the older generation. I don't think there is any way you could work until you are 70 in this industry.
'Most of us are relatively young, but even we get very tired and it is very straining on your body, especially in the winter when you are out in the cold – I just can't see that's going to happen when I am 70.
'It is ridiculous.'
As part of his apprenticeship, Mr Brehaut will undertake a number of City & Guilds examinations, which he said could lead to other roles within the industry such as site foreman.
He also felt the added strain on construction workers having to work until they are 70 could increase the burden on Health and Social Services.
'I can see in a way, perhaps for people in an office job it might not be as hard physically to work until you are 70, but it could be just as hard mentally for them.'
