Debate contribution: Sign Language Bill: Further Consideration Stage
Debate contribution by Mr Colm Gildernew on .
- MLA
- Mr Colm Gildernew
- Party at the time
- Sinn Féin
- Date
- 20 April 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Executive Committee Business
- Heading
- Sign Language Bill: Further Consideration Stage
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5493829
Read the official Assembly record
Text
It is inherent in the Bill that support right across the range will increase. There is also an acknowledgement that other people will be included in it. There will be a potential for some charges. Those charges will not exceed the cost of classes, but it is very apparent that there will be a huge need and requirement to see additional interpreters and classes and respect for the promotion of the culture of the deaf community. That is all very important. It will be transformative. It is a landmark Bill in that sense. I acknowledge the work of the Department in bringing the Bill to this stage. I also acknowledge the Department's very strong co-production with the deaf community. I once again thank the deaf community for its support and advice throughout the passage of the Bill. I have absolutely no doubt that the Bill that we have ended up with will deliver real and tangible changes to the lives of many people in the deaf and deafblind communities. It is clear to see from the huge level of excitement and interest in the Bill that its final sign-off is eagerly awaited by so many. In that spirit, I look forward to coming back to the Chamber in the coming weeks to vote in support of this transformational Bill at Final Stage.
222 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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