Debate contribution: Sign Language Bill: Consideration Stage

Debate contribution by Mrs Pam Cameron on 24 March 2026.

MLA: Mrs Pam Cameron
Party at the time: Democratic Unionist Party
Date: 24 March 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Executive Committee Business
Heading: Sign Language Bill: Consideration Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5463442

Text

I rise to support the Sign Language Bill at Consideration Stage. I record my thanks to the Minister and the Chair of the Committee for outlining so well the work on the legislation as it made its way through Committee Stage. It is important to note that it is a complex, sensitive piece of legislation, and the Assembly has done itself proud in ensuring that those who are most important to that conversation — the deaf community — were very much heard and that we were able to hear them. The work that has been done by the House to facilitate that has been phenomenal and sets a great example going forward. This is important and timely legislation, and we are so glad to see it making its way through the Chamber. It is about recognition, respect and, most importantly, improving the everyday lives of people across our communities who rely on British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language. For many in the deaf community, barriers still exist to accessing services, information and opportunities that others often take for granted. The Bill represents a clear and meaningful step towards addressing those barriers. It places a duty on Government not simply to acknowledge sign language but to actively promote it and to consider the needs of those who use it. That matters. I record my appreciation of the Minister for Communities. He has approached the legislation in a thoughtful, measured and constructive way. It is clear that there has been genuine engagement with stakeholders and a willingness to listen throughout the process. I also acknowledge the departmental officials and thank them for their work in drafting the legislation and supporting its progression through the Assembly. I know that that work has gone on over many years, and it is greatly appreciated. The amendments that the Minister tabled reflect that approach and strengthen the Bill. They provide clarity and ensure that the legislation is workable and deliverable in practice. Crucially, they do so without losing sight of the original purpose of the Bill, and that is the right balance to strike. It is not legislation for the sake of legislation; it is focused, proportionate and grounded in what will make a real difference. It is also important to recognise that the Bill does not exist in isolation; it sits within a wider context of how we support people, remove barriers and ensure that services are accessible to all. The Bill provides a strong foundation on which we can continue to work. It recognises sign language as an integral part of our society. It places a responsibility on Departments to reflect that in how they operate. There will, of course, always be calls to go further — that is the nature of any legislation — but it is important that we proceed in a way that is evidence-based and sustainable and that ensures delivery. The Minister has made it clear that, where further work is needed, it will be taken forward in a practical and measured way. That is the responsible approach, particularly in the current financial climate. The Bill before us is clear in its intent and realistic in its delivery. It has been carefully developed, properly scrutinised and broadly supported. Above all, it sends a clear message to the deaf community that its language, culture and voice are recognised and valued. For those reasons, I am pleased to support the Bill at Consideration Stage, and I look forward to seeing it progress further.

582 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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