28 May 2002

Deaf rally today in Parliament grounds to celebrate telephone relay service decision

Disability Issues Minister Ruth Dyson and Communications Minister Paul Swain will address a rally of the Deaf and disabled communities on the front steps of Parliament today, Tuesday 28 May, 2002 at 1.00pm.

The rally has been organised by the Deaf community to celebrate the government’s decision to set up a telephone relay service.

The relay service will give people who are Deaf or have speech or hearing impairments access to instant two-way telephone communication.

Programme:
11.00am Deaf and disabled communities gather at Frank Kitts Park and march to Parliament

12.30pm: Deaf theatre/mime performance in the grounds of Parliament

1.00pm Ruth Dyson and Paul Swain will be presented with thank-you cards and address rally.

Other speakers include Rosslyn Noonan, Chief Human Rights Commissioner, and representatives from the Deaf Association and Assembly of People with Disabilities.

2.00pm For the first time ever, two sign language interpreters (Ann Wise and Rosie Henley) will stand on the floor of the House during question time to sign for members of the Deaf community in the public gallery.

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