Liadh welcomes Sign Language victory

Sinn Féin MEP Liadh Ní Riada has welcomed the inclusion of her amendment on Sign Language translation in the EU 2018 budget.

The Ireland South MEP submitted the amendment through her role on the Culture and Education Committee.

The passing of the amendment means all plenary debates in Europe will now have International Sign Language interpretation.

“I welcome the passing of this key amendment which is yet another positive step towards full language equality,” she said.

“If properly implemented it will enable members of our Deaf Community to more fully participate in the workings of the EU and society as a whole. No aspect of modern life demands equality and inclusiveness more than the decision making process we are all subject to so I call upon the European Parliament to implement this decision without further delay.

“I am also reiterating my call for Irish Sign Language to be given full recognition in Ireland along with the full ratification of the UN Convention of Rights for persons with disabilities.

“The Irish Sign Language Recognition Bill was passed in the Seanad last year and it is long past time it became law.

“Sign Language users come from a vibrant, diverse and distinct language community, with its own culture and trajectory. It includes Deaf and Hearing people, young and old, men and women. This community is entitled to equality, respect and recognition, and I intend to work with ISL users to secure these.”