6 May 2000: Disability Document Opens Debate On National Strategy

The discussion document for the New Zealand Disability Strategy is the first step in fulfilling a key Labour pre-election promise to people with disabilities, Minister for Disability Issues Ruth Dyson said today.

Launching the document, Making a World of Difference: Whakanui Oranga, at Parliament, Ms Dyson said it opened public debate on the development of a national strategy to remove the barriers which prevent people with disabilities from participating fully in society.

"People with disabilities want a good life, just like people without disabilities. However, many are unable to reach their potential or participate fully in their communities because of the barriers they face doing the things most New Zealanders take for granted.

"These barriers relate to attitudes, education, employment, access to services, socio-economic status and other factors which affect people's goals and aspirations."

Ms Dyson said the discussion document marked a turning point in the relationship between the Government and people with disabilities.

"By next year, for the first time, the Government will have a national, comprehensive and coordinated approach to people with disabilities. We will be able to address issues across agencies, policies, services and legislation. It's going to make a big difference. In fact, it's going to make a world of difference."

Ms Dyson said the primary focus of the strategy will be on what government agencies and other publicly-funded organisations need to do.

"Once the stategy is finalised, the Government will consider an implementation proposal for government departments and other agencies. This proposal will contain specific projects and targets which they will need to build into their work programmes.

"The Government will take the lead. But we will also be doing all we can to influence the attitudes and behaviour of society as a whole."

More than 40 workshops will be held around the country in September and October to allow public input into the strategy.

"Some workshops are only open to people with disabilities, to assure they have a strong voice in the development of the strategy," Ms Dyson said.

"Others are open to the public, including families, carers and service providers. There will also be a number of hui and fono in the main centres, in recognition of the special needs and perspective of Māori and Pacific people with disabilities."

The discussion document will be available in a variety of formats from hard copy to Braille, audio cassette and on this website as well as the Disabled People's Association website. Information about the strategy is also available on the Foundation for the Blind free telephone information service (0800 363 344).

Submissions on Making a World of Difference: Whakanui Oranga close on 1 November 2000.

Contact Pip Desmond, Press Secretary,
Telephone: 04 471 9258,
Mobile: 025 575 894.

Hon. Ruth Dyson,
Minister for Disability Issues,
Associate Minister for Accident Insurance,
Associate Minister of Health,
Associate Minister of Social Services & Employment,
MP for Banks Peninsula.

Telephone: +64 3 389 2262,
Mobile: 025 461 674.