Ms Lianne Quigley:

I thank Deputy Higgins for her question. It comes down to the fact that we need more funding in the deaf community and specifically for interpreters.

We do not have 100% access to interpreters. We very much depend on availability and the frameworks that are currently in place. We have the sign language interpreting service which is provided but is limited. It is limited as to when it is open and it is limited as to when interpreters are available, for example at weekends. We need an increase in funding to access interpreters. That is my first point.

Regarding deaf people becoming involved in political life, it is very difficult for a deaf person to run for election or possibly even consider campaigning within politics because there is no budget there. No funding is provided for canvassing and consultation with possible voters. In that way, they cannot become involved within political life. We need a definite change in cultural attitude to be able to see a better, more diverse and more inclusive society in which disabled people and their identities are involved and not just stereotyped or labelled negatively. Attitudes and funding are the two things that need to change.