"The aim is for the centre to train all people who deal in some way with ageing and, therefore, help to develop response techniques, to stimulate active ageing in its various dimensions", said the Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security, Ana Mendes Godinho, on the side-lines of the opening ceremony and presentation of the new institution.

For the Minister of Labour, the new structure “could be an instrument not only for empowering and training people but also as a key partner in the formation of public policies dedicated to ageing”.

According to a note from the Municipality of Loulé, the actions promoted by the CCEA are aimed at job seekers in professional areas that fall within the remit of the centre, including those who are unemployed.

Training will also be given to employees of entities involved in providing care for the elderly, informal caregivers of the elderly and entities that promote the creation or development of projects in this area.

The mayor of Loulé, Vítor Aleixo, was pleased that the Government had decided to locate the new centre “outside of Lisbon and Porto” and that his municipality had been chosen.