Submissions

IHC strongly supports the swift moves being taken, in the aftermath of the Christchurch terrorist attack, to limit the availability and use of semi-automatic firearms, magazines and parts that can be used to assemble prohibited firearms.

IHC is concerned that the current draft of the plan will not create an inclusive early learning system because it does not establish the reasonable accommodations necessary to ensure children with disabilities enjoy early childhood education and care on an equal basis with their non-disabled peers.

IHC supports the Government’s move to use a wellbeing approach in the Budget process, but says greater consideration needs to be given to how it applies to people with intellectual disabilities.

IHC strongly supports development of the strategy, stating it's the best opportunity New Zealand has to embed and give effect to children's rights in legislation, policy and practice development and implementation, and to create the conditions that allow every child to have their best childhood.

IHC is extremely disappointed to see the work on improving health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities is being 're-scoped in line with the new government's priorities and manifesto commitments'.

IHC says for people with intellectual disabilities to be active participants in legal issues and processes, they require legal information to be communicated in a way they can understand.

IHC recommends care is taken with how welfare reform proposals are framed to ensure the welfare system, and the social contract on which it is based, is inclusive.

IHC says the Plan must result in students with intellectual disability having discrimination-free access to, and outcomes from, education at their local school.

IHC says any legal reform should build in supports and safeguards that protect people with intellectual disability from being taken advantage of in the rental market, while at the same time ensuring they have choice and control over their living and inclusion in the community.

IHC asks that the rights, needs and circumstances of people with intellectual disability and their families, across the lifespan, be actively considered in the development of Healthy Homes Standards.