DPA (NZ) Inc appreciates the invitation and the opportunity to comment on this second report on the implementation of the New Zealand Disability Strategy which was launched in April 2001.

Since our creation 20 years ago, DPA remains New Zealand's only comprehensive disability advocacy voice. We played an active leadership role in the production of the Strategy and remain committed to its implementation.

The Strategy has led to much expectation amongst disabled people that a 'new era' of development has begun. In this respect DPA welcomes the current Government's aggregation of disability issues into a single ministerial focus and creation of the Office for Disability Issues within the Ministry of Social Development. This is a unique step forward and something we have actively sought for some time.

DPA is also pleased to acknowledge the range of practical achievements and activities of the various government departments identified in this report. These reflect commitment to, and interest in, 'making progress' towards the 15 objectives of the Strategy. DPA is grateful for the opportunity it has had to contribute.

However, for most in our DPA constituency, and for the 20% of our New Zealand population who identified as disabled in the latest census, the most important outcome of the Strategy will ultimately be determined by the positive impact it has on our individual circumstances. To address this, and to capitalise on progress to date, our organisation is keen to see future Strategy implementation identify resource allocation and time-lines for:

• The need to translate the framework of the Strategy into more detailed entitlement (by way of regulation and standards), providing national consistency and guarantees that can be equitably negotiated by disabled service users
• The need to legally mandate the operation of the Office for Disability Issues with governance by disabled people
• The need for more consumer-directed research on service provision (Objective 10)
• The need for improved support across all sectors of the education system from pre-school children to older people (Objective 3)
• The need for real incentives to employment and for continued progress in addressing current benefit anomalies (Objective 4)
• The need for more activity in the Strategy objectives: 12 - Pacific Island Peoples, 14 - Women, and 15 - Family/Whānau support.

Finally, we remain confident that the Strategy will continue to address and deliver on our needs and concerns and DPA remains committed to working with Government to ensure this happens.

Bill Wrightson,
Chief Executive Officer,
D.P.A. (N.Z.) Inc.