Hon CARMEL SEPULONI (Minister for Disability Issues): On Monday, I launched New Zealand Sign Language Week. As part of this, I was pleased to highlight that the new Ministry for Disabled People will be New Zealand's first ministry with a New Zealand Sign Language name. This year's theme, "New Zealand Sign Language is Essential", recognises the prominence and importance of our second official language and draws a spotlight on essential workers who are deaf. I'm proud of the status we have given to New Zealand Sign Language both in Aotearoa New Zealand and on an international stage. We are recognised as a world leader for our commitment to maintaining and furthering the use of sign language.