The Act recognises both British and Irish sign language and places obligations on the Department for Communities to promote greater use and understanding of sign language and the entitlement of individuals in the deaf community to use sign language as necessary and convenient in the course of their everyday activities.

The legislation also places obligations on public bodies to ensure the information and services that they provide are accessible to members of the deaf community. This includes ensuring the provision of free sign language classes to deaf children and their families.

Communities minister Gordon Lyons described the Act as a “landmark achievement for the deaf community and everyone who has campaigned tirelessly over many years to secure greater recognition and rights”.

Minister Lyons further added: “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.”

Julie Graham, director of Action Deaf Youth said: “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 British sign language/ Irish sign language.

“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.”