Cabinet approves Sign Language

By Thameenah Razeek

Cabinet has approved recognising  Sign Language as a communication method by an Act of Parliament.  Cabinet has advised the Legal Draftsman to draft the Bill. On 8 November, 2010 the then Cabinet had approved the acknowledgement of Sign Language as a recognised language considering the significant hearing impaired community in the country.

Accordingly they will be empowered by recognising sign language as a means of communication in accessing educational needs, legal matters, health facilities, and Government and private services. 

Addressing the Weekly Cabinet Media briefing at the Department of Government Information  on Tuesday (19), Co-Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Keheliya Rambukwella announced that the need to draft a bill designating Sign Language as a formal means of communication had been identified and that necessary action will be taken in this regard.