12. JO GOODHEW (National—Rangitata) Link to this
to the Minister of Civil Defence
What actions has he taken recently to increase civil defence awareness?
Hon JOHN CARTER (Minister of Civil Defence) Link to this
On Monday, 16 August I had the honour of launching a DVD designed to give potentially life-saving advice on emergency planning to the Deaf and hearing-impaired. Information is provided in New Zealand Sign Language, and is also captioned. This DVD encourages those who are deaf or who have significant hearing impairment to plan ahead for their specific requirements in an emergency. It focuses on developing an emergency plan with friends, family, and neighbours.
Given the Minister’s answer to the previous question, why is it important to have such resources available?
Public education is essential to ensure that New Zealanders are aware and prepared for the number of natural hazards that this country is vulnerable to. Making New Zealanders more aware includes of course the Deaf, the hearing, and the hearing-impaired. [ Interruption] Obviously, the Opposition does not take this matter seriously, but for New Zealanders who are interested, it is a matter of seriousness. Making New Zealanders more aware—
Hon Darren HughesWell, it is very interesting to see that the Opposition considers civil defence a matter of a joke. But actually—[ Interruption]
Mr SPEAKERWe have had a bit of fun in the House this afternoon, and some serious times, and there is no need for this level of interjection. I think the House was too noisy. Has the Minister completed his answer?
Of course, it is no wonder members opposite consider it a joke; New Zealanders think they are a disaster, Mr New Zealand—Mr Speaker. Making New Zealanders more aware includes—
Hon Trevor Mallard Link to this
Given the news—and we were not aware of it—I seek leave to move a motion without notice congratulating you on your success in the Mr New Zealand contest.
I have to say that the House has totally destroyed my reputation for getting through question time efficiently. I think that today’s has been the longest question time in my time as Speaker. There have been some tense questions, and there has been a bit of fun, as well, but members are now just wasting time.
I will, Mr Speaker—absolutely. Making New Zealanders more aware includes of course the Deaf and hearing-impaired. It is estimated that about 10 percent of the New Zealand population have hearing difficulties of some degree. It is essential that all communities release the Get Ready Get Thru scheme.
I am pleased to see that the latest research shows that the Colmar Brunton survey carried out in April and May of this year shows an increasing awareness of overall civil defence issues by the public. For example, 65 percent of respondents have undertaken some action as a result of the Get Ready Get Thru advertisements. But, of course, there is always more to do to ensure that New Zealanders are prepared for disasters.