Deaf communities will have improved access to emergency information as the result of a Memorandum Of Understanding between the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management and Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand. This MoU will provide a foundation for the two agencies to improve information before, during and after an emergency.
Up until now majority of the information shared about emergencies is done in media interviews, on TV and at Public Meetings. In the event of a major emergency it is important that everyone be ready and able to follow any advise given. Civil Defence and Deaf Aotearoa will work together to get New Zealand Sign Language interpreting used in emergencies where practicable – and to jointly create emergency preparedness resources.
Click here to read full article from Hon Kris Faafoi
Click here to go to Deaf Aotearoa website