The BSL Bill was launched on Thursday, 08 July and it is now time for us all to submit our responses. A copy of the Consultation document can be found here or you can find it in BSL by clicking here.
Briefly, though, there are four questions under `areas for consideration` which your response to Cathie Craigie MSP should address. You can reply by email, letter or, if you prefer to respond in BSL, you can send a CD/DVD.
The questions are:
1. Do you believe British Sign Language should be granted legal recognition and protection by the Scottish Government?
Suggested response: I believe that British Sign Language should be granted legal recognition and protection by the Scottish Government.
2. Do you think Deaf people in Scotland should be able to access information and services in British Sign Language?
Suggested response: I think Deaf people in Scotland should be able to access information and services in British Sign Language.
3. How can the number of people able to use British Sign Language be increased?
Suggested response: British Sign Language should be taught at primary and secondary level for all children, in the same way other languages are taught as proposed in this Bill.
4. Do you agree that the parents, grandparents, siblings and other family members of deaf babies and toddlers in Scotland should have the opportunity to access free BSL classes in order to be able to communicate effectively with the child?
Suggested response: I agree that the parents, grandparents, siblings and other family members of deaf babies and toddlers in Scotland should have the opportunity to access free BSL classes in order to be able to communicate effectively with the child.
You should make it clear whether you are responding as an individual or on behalf of an organisation.
Responses should be submitted (in writing or BSL) to:
Cathie Craigie MSP
Room MG.10
Scottish Parliament
Edinburgh
EH99 1SP
Or by email to Cathie.Craigie.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
(Responses need to be submitted by 29 October 2010)