Ulster Unionist Communities Spokesperson Andy Allen MBE MLA has welcomed the Final Stage passage of the Sign Language Bill, which will now proceed for Royal Assent.

Andy Allen said:

“This is an important and welcome milestone, many years in the making. The passage of the Sign Language Bill at the final stage marks a significant step forward in recognising and supporting the deaf community across Northern Ireland.

“This legislation formally recognises British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language and places duties on the Department for Communities to promote their greater use and understanding, and on prescribed organisations, which will be set out in regulations, to take reasonable steps to ensure the information and services they provide are as accessible to individuals in the deaf community as they are to those who are not. Those duties will be supported by guidance/action plans, reporting requirements and oversight arrangements to promote consistency in delivery.

“I want to acknowledge the work of the Minister and departmental officials in bringing this legislation forward, engagement throughout and guiding it through the Assembly.

“Crucially, members of the deaf community have been at the heart of this process. Their engagement and willingness to share lived experience have helped shape the Bill, both in its development and through the committee and wider legislative process.

“The Committee Stage provided an important opportunity to test and strengthen the legislation. That process has been constructive and has helped improve the final Bill. I also want to pay tribute to the Committee staff for their thorough work in supporting scrutiny and assisting members throughout that important legislative stage.

“As the Bill now moves to Royal Assent, the focus must turn to implementation. The key thing is that the measures in the Bill are properly resourced and clearly understood across government and beyond, so they can deliver the intended positive impact promptly.

“I have no doubt the Committee, for the remainder of this mandate, will continue to follow implementation closely, and I trust the next Committee will maintain that focus and ensure the commitments in the legislation are fully delivered.”