MEDIACOM-RELEASE-IHC
IHC today congratulated the Government on its decision to abandon discriminatory compulsory care legislation.
"The Intellectual Disability (Compulsory Care) Bill meant children and adults with intellectual disabilities could be
locked up without having committed a crime.
“It would have undoubtedly led to some of the most vulnerable people in our society having their basic rights ignored.
I'm thrilled the Government has seen sense on this," IHC National President Barbara Rocco said today.
Mrs Rocco said IHC had been vehemently opposed to the legislation, and was dismayed when children were included. Self-
advocates (people with an intellectual disability) were also distressed, and were preparing to make a strong submission
to the Health Select Committee.
IHC will continue to work with Ruth Dyson, the Minister responsible for disability issues to ensure the needs of all
people with intellectual disabilities are met, Mrs Rocco said. End Contact: Barbara Rocco, New Zealand President 04 472
2247 Janine Stewart, Director of Advocacy,
Ends