15 December 2006

CCS Celebrates UN Convention

The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted a treaty on the rights of disabled people.

This is the same treaty that has been adopted in the past for groups such as woman and children and provides human rights and access to education, health and law. The UN convention now also applies to disabled people.

"CCS congratulates the New Zealand participant's on their leading role. Particularly in the negotiating, providing information and involving disabled people and non-government organisations," said Paul Gibson, National Policy Manager.

The disability service provider and advocacy organisation believes the UN convention may have huge implications for New Zealand's disabled people. "Disabled girls are currently able to be sterilized for non-medical reasons, however, if the New Zealand government signs the convention, they will be obliged to change this," said Paul Gibson.

CCS believes there are currently problems with New Zealand's disability support services, as identified by the need for a Select Committee Inquiry on Disability Support Services. It identifies sections in the convention that show a "positive path forward", from early support for children to support for older people with disabilities. It feels that New Zealand's current disability support systems do not currently meet these requirements.

"CCS would like the Government and Select Committee to use the convention as a guide for decision-making and ensuring the rights of people with disabilities," said Paul Gibson.

CCS Background Information

CCS works in partnership with disabled people, their families and whanau to ensure equality of opportunity, quality of life and an environment that enhances full community integration and participation.

CCS exists to make a difference for disabled people, their families and whanau by removing barriers to inclusion and by offering support to disabled people to access all ordinary opportunities in their communities. Our community is made up of disabled people and their families and whanau, who live in Aotearoa New Zealand. We include all people who face barriers to inclusion on the basis of disability and who want to access the disability support services we provide.

Reflecting the commitment in the New Zealand Disability Strategy - Making A World of Difference Whakanui Oranga [Minister for Disability Issues April 2001], a key expectation of CCS work is that the New Zealand community grows its capacity to ensure that disabled people have the same rights, choices, opportunities and safeguards as other citizens.

CCS operates with a National Office and regional management structure, providing services nationally from 16 incorporated societies. We deliver regular services to over 6,000 people with disabilities making us one of the largest disability support service providers in New Zealand. CCS works closely with other disability agencies to ensure we make best use of shared knowledge and resources, helping us to adopt best practice across the sector.

ENDS

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