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Northern Ireland Launches Free Sign Language Classes for Deaf Children
Northern Ireland became the first region in the United Kingdom to offer sign language classes free of charge to all deaf children and their families. The Sign Language Act, passed on April 28, 2025, mandates free classes for deaf individuals under 25 and their close family members.
Northern Ireland became the first region in the United Kingdom to offer sign language classes free of charge to all deaf children and their families. With the Sign Language Act passed on April 28, 2025, the government became obligated to provide free sign language classes to deaf individuals under 25 and their close family members, guardians, and caregivers. The law also requires public institutions to take reasonable steps to facilitate access to information and services for deaf individuals. Additionally, the equal recognition of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) was guaranteed by the law.
Expected to cost approximately 3 million pounds annually, this initiative aims to increase the use of BSL and ISL, languages preferred by about 5,000 people. Deaf youths like 14-year-old Ellie-May highlighted the importance of sign language in education and social life, expressing their desire for more young people to learn sign language. Northern Ireland Communities Minister Gordon Lyons described the law as a "historic day," emphasizing that sign language users are valued members of society.
The British Sign Language Act, passed in England, Scotland, and Wales in 2022, legally recognized BSL but did not mandate free classes. Northern Ireland's new law is considered a significant step in this area.
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