Deaf and disabled people rallied on the steps of Parliament today to celebrate the creation of a telephone relay service
to allow deaf people telephone access, and to thank Minister for Disability Issues Ruth Dyson and Telecommunications
Minister Paul Swain for making it happen.
After a seven-year battle for the service by Victoria Manning and Kim Robinson, Ms Dyson and Mr Swain announced the
relay service would be established as a Telecommunications Service Order (TSO), under the Telecommunications Act 2001.
BACKGROUND:
- Victoria Manning - A Victory For Deaf And Disabled People
- Paul Swain & Ruth Dyson - Government Backs Deaf Relay Service
Disabilities Minister Ruth Dyson, left, in dialogue with Victoria Manning.
Supporters rally.
Left to right: Telecommunications Minister Paul Swain, Victoria Manning and Kim Robinson.
Victoria Manning leads a big sign-clap.
Paul Swain tries his hand at signing.
Ruth Dyson signed a little, and then left it to interpreter Anne Wise.
Ruth Dyson and Paul Swain in a feel good moment, with huge cards signed with thanks.
Human Rights Commissioner Rosslyn Noonan at right.