We were honoured to have the Hon Ruth Dyson, Minister for Disability Issues as guest speaker at our recent APM.  In her wide ranging address entitled "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the NZ Disability Strategy", the Minister acknowledged disparities in existing disability support services while also recording the progress that has been made since the introduction of the Strategy.

The Minister focused on four areas of interest to blind people:

Firstly, transport.  She noted that the Human Rights Commission report, "The Accessible Journey" says there are ongoing difficulties for disabled people in using public transport.  Minister Dyson undertook to work with the Minister of Transport toward implementing the recommendations from the HRC.

Secondly, access to services.  The Minister said that Government was aware the current funding system for disability is fragmented and complicated, with inequities and inflexibility.  It was noted that long-term disability supports are funded by 10 different departments and that a "whole-of-government" approach is needed to ensure enduring solutions.  The Office for Disability Issues is working on services that fit the disabled person, rather than requiring the person to match the system.

Thirdly, employment.  It was acknowledged that real work for real pay was a vital component of a good life.  Reinvigoration of vocational services for people with disabilities through a variety of projects, aims to create a positive employment climate.  The foundation was congratulated for its initiatives in developing better employment prospects for members.

Finally, Minister Dyson focused on changing attitudes, pointing out that the way disabled people are seen is a collective task to be embraced by individuals, groups, organisations and government departments.  The way we are treated is modified through our actions and contacts in the community, rather than through legislative fiat.  The work of the Foundation and its Chief Executive were acknowledged as leading the disability sector by working with government agencies and offering solutions.  The key to advancing the disability strategy was a partnership between Government and the disability sector.  All were urged to contribute to the five yearly review of the disability strategy currently under way.

The Minister's speech is at

http://www.beehive.govt.nz/dyson