Interpreters

The Irish Deaf Society does not book interpreters but we would recommend you contact the Sign Language Interpreting Services (SLIS) by emailing bookings@slis.ie 

Rules and Tips for working with an Irish Sign Language Interpreter include:

• Book and Interpreter in plenty of time. Do not assume you can book an Interpreter at the last minute.
• Give as much detail to booking agency when looking for an ISL interpreter. This is to ensure they can match you with an appropriate Interpreter.
• If you cancel an Interpreter, ensure to follow the booking agencies policy in relation to a cancellation fee
• Interpreters can be expensive, we would advise that you not discuss payments/costs of interpreter with a Deaf person if they are not involved in payment.
• If you have never used an Irish Sign Language Interpreter before, do not worry. Try meet the Interpreter a little earlier to discuss protocol and allow the interpreter explain their role.
• An interpreted conversation may need more time so be aware of this when making an arrangement that requires an interpreter.
• Maintain eye contact to the Deaf people when speaking. This means that you can clearly see if the Deaf person understands you (via the interpreter) and can read their body language.
• Talk normal, do not slow down. If the interpreter feels you are speaking too fast, they will tell you.
• The interpreter should sit beside you and the Deaf person opposite. Always talk to the Deaf person in the "first person". You are communicating with the Deaf person and the Interpreter is relaying what you are saying.
• Anything that you say in the company of a Deaf person should be translated so if you do not wish for the Deaf person to hear what you say, please do not say so in their company. Never tell an Interpreter  "Don't tell him/her I said that"
• If you are not happy with the service of your Interpreter (Lateness, appearance, Interpreter was not suitable for the job, etc.) - please give feedback to the booking agency. They welcome any feedback in order to improve their services.