Sign Language Act receives Royal Assent
Date published:
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has welcomed the granting of Royal Assent to the Sign Language Act, marking a historic and transformative moment for sign language users across Northern Ireland.
The Act provides formal recognition and support for sign language, helping to ensure that Deaf people can participate more fully in society and access public services with greater confidence and independence.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:
"I am delighted that the Sign Language Act has now received Royal Assent. This is a landmark achievement for the Deaf community and everyone who has campaigned tirelessly over many years to secure greater recognition and rights.
“The Sign Language Act is unique in these islands, providing recognition and promotion for both British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language within Northern Ireland. In doing so, it reflects Northern Ireland's distinctive linguistic heritage and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring Deaf people can participate fully in society.
"The Act sends a clear message that sign language is valued and respected. It will help remove barriers, promote inclusion and support Deaf people to engage fully in everyday life.
"Again, I want to pay tribute to the Deaf community, advocacy organisations, elected representatives and all those who contributed their experience and expertise throughout the development of this legislation. Their determination and commitment have been instrumental in bringing us to this important day.
"Royal Assent is an important milestone, but it is only one stage on the journey. The Department will continue to work closely with the Deaf community to ensure that the ambitions of the Act are realised in practice. It is my intention to bring forward a commencement order in September, and I will be pleased to make further announcements around the implementation of the Act including the promotion of sign language and classes.
"Together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone is able to communicate, participate and thrive."
Julie Graham, the Director of Action Deaf Youth added:
“We were delighted to welcome the Communities Minister to our summer scheme for deaf children following the news that the Sign Language Bill has now received Royal Assent.
“This new Act is an important piece of legislation which long term will make a significant difference to the lives of deaf children and young people, as well as Deaf adults, in Northern Ireland, ensuring fair access to public services such as education and health through BSL/ISL.
“Of particular importance is the clause within the Act entitling deaf children, young people and their families access to sign language classes free of charge. This is something Northern Ireland has already been offering for the past 12 years and this new Act safeguards this provision long term, ensuring language deprivation amongst deaf children can be prevented.”
Notes to editors:
- The Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) received Royal Assent on 9th July 2026.
- The Act aims to promote the recognition, use and understanding of sign language across Northern Ireland.
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