Sign language interpretation broadcasting on Parliament TV – 5 and 6 May

Over the next two days ( May 5 and 6 from 2pm to 6pm), Parliament TV will include sign language interpretation to mark New Zealand Sign Language Week.

Two interpreters will work in turns to provide the interpretation which will be broadcast as an inset in the corner of the screen of the regular Parliament TV broadcast.

Chief Executive of Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand, Rachel Noble, welcomed the opportunity to interpret Parliament in sign language.

“Over the two days it will create awareness of sign language which is currently used by 29,000 New Zealanders,” she said.

Visitors to the Debating Chamber will be able to see the sign language interpretation on screens installed in the Press Gallery.

Parliament TV can be viewed on Freeview 22, Sky 94 and TelstraClear 94. The replays of question time at 6pm and 10 pm will also include the sign language interpretation. The proceedings will be webcast on http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/Features/d/9/e/00NZPHomeNews010520091-Sign-language-interpretation-to-be-broadcast.htm

New Zealand Sign Language is an official New Zealand language along with English and Māori.

The theme for 2009 NZSL Week is “New Zealand Sign Language Is In Your Hands”, to help encourage people to take responsibility for learning NZSL.

The website for Sign Language Week is www.nzsign.co.nz.

ENDS