Final proposals to amend the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006
06 July 2023.
The New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006 aims to promote and maintain the use of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), but despite the Act, the use of NZSL is declining which represents a significant threat to Deaf people’s identity and wellbeing.
To support the promotion, maintenance, and acquisition of NZSL, this paper seeks Cabinet’s agreement to amend the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006 so that:
- the existing NZSL Board becomes a statutory Ministerial advisory group
- the functions of the NZSL statutory Ministerial advisory group, its role in monitoring the actions of government agencies to support the purpose of the Act, and the principles to guide appointments are included in an amended Act
- it includes specific references to support Turi Māori identity and leadership.
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Summary of Cabinet paper
Full Cabinet paper
Timecodes.
Executive Summary: 02:04:28
Background: 08:40:41
Uplifting the mana and status of NZSL to improve outcomes for Deaf people: 19:09:07
Non-legislative approaches to strengthen Deaf leadership were considered: 34:52:16
Financial Implications: 38:23:05
Consultation: 42:06:04
Recommendations: 46:23:41
Appendix 1: 52:17:11
Appendix 2: 01:03:02:27
Additional Links
- The Office for Disability Issues has published a summary of the key themes heard from consultation on amending the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006, including in alternate formats. You can find this summary here: NZSL Act Consultation 2022 - Office for Disability Issues (odi.govt.nz)
