Speech
New Zealand Down Syndrome Association T4T Afternoon
Ladies and Gentlemen, I greet you in the languages of the realm of New Zealand - English, Maori, CookIsland, Niuean and Tokelauan.
Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni.
Specifically I greet: You Your Royal Highness Prince Andrew, Duke of York and President of the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association, Neville Strong.
It is a matter of great delight for Susan and I to warmly welcome you to Government House this afternoon for the inaugural New Zealand Down Syndrome Association T4T event.
I also thank the Association for the offer of patronage. It is a role I accept with pleasure. This marks the beginning of my ongoing relationship with the organisation.
We are also here to commemorate World Down Syndrome Day which is being held tomorrow. 21 March was chosen as the appropriate date as it signifies the uniqueness of Down syndrome in the triplication of the 21st chromosome.
As the Queen's representative in New Zealand, and with the company of His Royal Highness, Prince Andrew Duke of York, it is fitting that this afternoon- albeit a little early in the day- we enjoy that most of British pastimes - 'High Tea'.
In so doing, we celebrate the launch of a nation-wide campaign to raise awareness of Down syndrome. We are seeking to promote the message of inclusion and participation for those who have Down syndrome.
Today's T4T event will be the first of many similar events in communities across New Zealand.
The very act of drinking tea is universal. being a drink shared by many cultures and by people of all ages. Living as we do in a country with such a vibrant mix of cultures, there is no beverage better suited to bring New Zealanders together.
Down syndrome is also universal.
It is a life-long condition that crosses culture, race and religion. In New Zealand, around one in every thousand babies born will carry cells with an extra chromosome which produces the condition. There is no cure, but the problems caused by Down syndrome can be mitigated with the right support.
Although the prospect of raising a child with Down syndrome may be difficult for many parents, it soon becomes apparent that a child with Down syndrome has the needs of any other infant. Certainly, their need to be an integral and contributing part of their family is just like any other child's.
Living with Down syndrome does not need to hinder a person's life. Like anyone else, people with Down syndrome can make a valuable contribution to their family and community life.
Promoting this participation will pay dividends in a child's learning and development.
I commend The New Zealand Down Syndrome Association for the role it plays in raising community awareness. I also acknowledge the all-important practical support it offers people and families whose lives have been changed by Down syndrome.
I would like to finish by issuing you with a challenge or wero, which I have based upon the following Maori proverb:
Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa
Let us keep close together, not wide apart
By working together we can raise awareness of Down syndrome.
By nurturing close ties within our communities we can help create an accepting and inclusive environment in which people with Down syndrome can enjoy the same rights as anyone else.
I wish you all the best for the T4T events across New Zealand.
I began speaking in all the New Zealand realm languages. May I close by speaking in Maori issuing greetings and wishing you good health and fortitude in your endeavours.
No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, koutou katoa.