Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased that we have been able to reach agreement on the amendment to this section. As we have seen in recent days, television broadcasting services are a vital aspect of life in terms of access to information, recreation and education. It is especially important to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Ensuring access to television services for people with disabilities contributes to more a more equitable and inclusive society by promoting and facilitating social integration, inclusion, cohesion and, above all, participation.

The new statutory provision in section 10 of the Recognition of Irish Sign Language for the Deaf Community Bill further supports and enhances the principles and aspirations underpinning the development of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland's access rules provided under section 43 of the Broadcasting Act 2009. The rules are designed to promote the understanding and enjoyment of programmes by persons who are deaf or have a hearing impairment, persons who are blind or partially sighted or those who have a hearing impairment or are partially sighted. The amendment recognises and ensures that the principles of equality, dignity and respect underpinning the access rules remain constant. I commend it to the House.