Serious Concerns about human rights and the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Bill
The Human Rights Commission has raised concerns over a proposed law change that may breach New Zealand’s international
and human rights obligations. Disability Rights Commissioner Paul Gibson appeared before the Local Government and
Environment Select Committee Select Committee today.
“In its current form the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Bill enables buildings to be exempted from
current requirements to upgrade disability access and fire access when undergoing earthquake strengthening,” said Mr
Gibson.
“Recently Government has made great progress in implementing the rights of disabled people. Many initiatives within the
Disability Action Plan and moves to support New Zealand Sign Language each announced last week, are to be celebrated.
However the proposed legislation reinforces the perception that the rights and needs of disabled and older people, and
their families, are a low priority for and not well understood by Government. If passed this amendment represents a
backward step for New Zealand’s high human rights record.”
"Assumptions about the cost of making buildings accessible are generalised and overstated: while the benefits of
accessibility, including reduced health and safety risks are understated,” said Mr Gibson.
“Accessibility will be faced by all of us at some stage in our lives. A more accessible and safer built environment will
benefit us all. With our aging population failing to upgrade disability access represents a missed opportunity to future
proof our buildings.”
ENDS
Download a copy of the commission’s full submission at: http://www.hrc.co.nz/key-projects/canterbury-earthquake-recovery/current-news/