During this extremely difficult time the access to information from the
Gibraltar Government is an important part of daily life. Unfortunately,
unlike many other countries, Gibraltar does not provide sign language
interpreters or subtitles for press conferences or other important
announcements. Government may feel that there is a small percentage of
persons with hearing loss in Gibraltar,
but it must be remembered that many of our elderly population also have
hearing issues brought about by old age. All those over 70 years of age
are by law having to self-isolate within their homes. Many of those do
not have access to daily newspapers and do not have access or the
ability to use the internet. Without the capability to access written
versions of said conferences/announcements they tend to rely on the
television. Although sign language is a preferred method of
communication for those with long term hearing loss we recognise that
many persons with hearing issues are not proficient in signing. The
Government should therefore ensure that any repeat of press conferences
or public announcements be accompanied by at least subtitles if not
both.
GHITA and The Disability Society have therefore come together
to publicly urge the Government to facilitate access to such information
in a manner according to the laws of Gibraltar. We would remind them of
the Disability Act 2017 Freedom of expression and opinion, and access
to information 17(1)(b) accepting and facilitating the use of sign
languages, Braille, augmentative and alternative communication, and all
other accessible means, modes and formats of communication of their
choice by persons with disabilities in official interactions;
We
understand the workload and pressure that Government and its Ministers
are under during the present time. But they must understand that they
have a responsibility to inform and support all members of the community
without discrimination particularly during this critical time.
There has been much talk during the Government press conferences of the
precautions being taken in the elderly residential homes and satellite
services. The Disability Society has been assured that the same strict
precautions are being taken at the Dr Giraldi Home and with the services
being provided in the homes of our members. We would like to take this
opportunity to thank Carlos Banderas, Majella McMullan, Care Agency
staff and all the carers for their hard work during this difficult time.
The Gibraltar Disability Society has donated £1000 to the GHA Covid-19
Fund. On behalf of the Committee and our members we wish to thank the
GHA not only for all the work they do every day but particularly so
during this difficult time.
The Disability Society has today met with the head of the Gibraltar Taxi
Association and have been assured that there is no new policy regarding
independent wheelchair users requiring carers to travel in adapted
taxis. We understand that this matter was raised on social media and we
are happy to clarify the situation.
