The Department of Social Care has commissioned the UK based specialist organisation Sight and Sound Technology Limited to consider actions needed to introduce the Disability Discrimination Act 2006 (DDA) in the Isle of Man and any costs so it can be introduced while also ensuring the legislation does not have unintended adverse economic impacts. Sight and Sound’s review is now well underway. Letters and questionnaires have been sent to key organisations in the public, private and third sectors seeking information to help to assess how the introduction of the DDA might affect these organisations. This review is essential to provide sufficient information to specify the principal areas of action and likely costs necessary for the legislation’s introduction. This is needed to comply with Government’s requirements for the introduction of all new and amended legislation. The Department is holding a briefing event on Thursday 3rd November 2011 at the Barrule Suite, Tynwald Legislative Building, Finch Road to help to capture a wide range of views re the introduction of the DDA. The business community are invited to attend at 10.30am to discuss their specific needs and concerns. Then Government Departments are invited to attend at 1.00pm. Finally, the third sector (which includes charitable, voluntary, faith-based and community groups) are invited to attend at 2.30pm. The event is intended to provide an opportunity to hear about the information that has already been collated and for all to give their views. If anyone wishes to attend the event, please contact Kate Hooson-Owen on 686230 before 5pm on Tuesday 1st November. Minister for Social Care Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK said: “I am committed to implementing the Disability Discrimination Act in order to promote the interests of all people with a disability in our community. It is vital that the Act’s implementation is undertaken in such a manner that achieves its intent as approved by Tynwald. At the same time, it is also vital that it is implemented in a manner and timescale that is achievable for local private, public and third sector organisations and does not cause unnecessary economic harm. Sight and Sound has demonstrated it has significant experience and insight from the implementation of similar legislation in the UK and elsewhere, hence Sight and Sound is ideally placed to help my Department determine the best way forward that balances the interests of individuals with those of local businesses and other organisations on the Island, some of which will need to make some changes in order to comply with the Act. Following Sight and Sound’s review, my Department will be in a position to recommend the most effective approach for the Act’s introduction including the likely costs and timescales. I believe this is the best approach to balance the interests of all in our community and achieve an effective introduction of this important legislation.” It is anticipated that Sight and Sound Technology Limited will complete their assignment by January 2012. The Department will then need to review its findings and bring this matter before Council of Ministers and Tynwald for approval. - ENDS -