The conference will consider how to encourage more people with disabilities to stand as candidates in elections and to ensure our parliaments are representative of society.

Ms Armstrong said: “As a member of the deaf community and a long-time advocate of disability rights, it’s a privilege to be chosen to attend this Commonwealth Forum on behalf of the NI Assembly. 

“I am looking forward to meeting other parliamentarians with disabilities and learning how they are improving opportunities for people with different abilities to be part of our democratic processes.

“Since my hearing loss has become more pronounced, it has become more evident that there are huge improvements needed to ensure people who have a sensory disability are included in our political institutions. 

“This year, I will bring forward amendments to the Sign Language Bill that will hopefully have a positive impact on the many people who lose their hearing as a result of age, illness or trauma.

“Political institutions should be inclusive and representative of persons with disabilities, and I look forward to learning from political representatives across the UK and the Mediterranean region about their experiences and the improvements they are implementing. I also encourage anyone with a disability who is interested in getting involved in politics to reach out.”