CCS Disability Action Welcomes Hon Nicky Wagner as New Minister for Disability Issues

CCS Disability Action warmly welcomes Hon Nicky Wagner as the new Minister for Disabilities Issues.

CCS Disability Action, Chief Executive, David Matthews said he was looking forward to working with the new Minister.

“For seventy nine years, we have been fighting for disabled people to get a fair go. We know that you need champions within Government. I am hoping Hon Nicky Wagner will be an effective champion.”

Mr Matthews noted that the previous Minister had left a strong legacy.

“Hon Tariana Turia did an excellent job engaging with the sector. She was pro-active in advocating for disability issues, including initiating a recent Access Review.”

Mr Matthews acknowledged that Hon Nicky Wagner is a strong supporter of equal opportunities for all.

“Ensuring people with disabilities have the same opportunities as others has never been more important. Our population is aging; there are now 1.1 million disabled New Zealanders. At the same time, a new generation of disabled people is coming through with high aspirations. They are, rightfully, asking for the same opportunities as everyone else.”

Mr Matthews emphasised that one major barrier was a lack of accessible buildings and infrastructure.

For people to live, work and be part of their community, buildings need to be accessible to all. A lot more work needs to be done around access. I am hoping the new Minister will take on the challenge and work to create a society where everyone gets a fair go.

ENDS

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