New Labor Government in New Zealand: Removing Barriers for People with Disabilities

"For people with disabilities, the last nine years has seen little progress towards helping them overcome the barriers to participation in their communities," said Ruth Dyson, recently appointed Minister for Disability Issues. The newly elected Labor Government intends to end the inactivity and begin making some real steps forward.

"Our aim will be to provide the legal rights, resources and support necessary to empower people with disabilities to overcome the barriers to participation in their communities and the achievement of their full potential as individuals.

"Labour's disabilities policy covers the issues of human rights, of the appropriate agency responsibility for disability services, and of habilitation and rehabilitation.

"Under the previous government, New Zealand failed to build a comprehensive, integrated habilitation and rehabilitation system. Services are split between the voluntary sector, the health sector, accident insurers and other government agencies with little coordination between them. The expertise available to provide habilitation and rehabilitation services is in short supply.

"Our policy will also encompass issues such as:
· Assessment services for people with disabilities.
· Providing key workers for people with disabilities.
· Communication; including recognising NZ Sign Language as an official language.
· An effective advocacy service.
· Needs-based funding for disability support services.
· Minimum standards of care.
· Access to transport.
· Special education services.
· Income support.
· Housing.
· Building access.
· Cultural appropriateness of disability support services.

"The Minister for Disability Issues will be responsible for initiating and monitoring a national strategic plan for disability support, habilitation and rehabilitation.

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