Who we are and what we do

The IDS is the only national Deaf-led representative organisation of the Deaf, and it serves the interests and welfare of the Deaf community. It provides a number of education, personal and social services to Deaf children, adults, and their families.  visit our About section for more information

_______________________________

Update on the National ISL Day 2023

Why is December 14th so special?

It marks a special day for the Deaf community with the Irish Sign Language Act 2017. This law recognises Irish Sign Language as a language, public bodies must provide interpreters, ISL in court, and ensuring access to education for Deaf children. ISL classes available for parents, grandparents, and siblings of Deaf children. ISL training is now part of teacher education programs, and ISL interpreters working in public services must be registered with RISLI. Services like IRIS (Irish Remote Interpreting Services) are on the rise. Broadcasters also have obligations with ISL on TV. From interpreting vouchers to ministerial reviews every 5 years!Join us on December 14th as we celebrate the impact of this legislation and the journey towards a more inclusive Ireland! 🤟💙

______________

Why Blue?

Why is the colour Blue so important to Deaf people and what does it mean?

The colour Blue is so significant to Deaf people, Deaf community and also is the colour of the IDS. We explain why....

_______________________________

Blue lit buildings...

Would you like to know which building will be lit with blue light on December 14th? You can find the information on our National ISL Day page.

_______________________________

Save the Date: Thursday, 14th December 2023

Celebrate National Irish Sign Language (ISL) Day with Us! ✨🤟

Join the Irish Deaf Society as we celebrate Irish Sign Language (ISL) 🎉 We're thrilled to partner with mad brothers bakery for an unforgettable celebration. Watch out for more updates, surprises, and a day filled with appreciation. Let's celebrate together for ISL Day 2023! 🤝🤟

#NationalISLDay2023 #NationalISLDay #BlueForISL

_______________________________

Publications section

Looking for IDS AGM, Annual Report, Policy or Research documents?
→ Visit our publications section now

_______________________________

IDS Coronavirus ISL Support

Visit our support  page Coronavirus ISL Support for news, ISL translations and links to resources. This section of our website will be a hub for ISL content and we are inviting other organisations to share their information with us and we will add to it.

The IDS is here with you during this difficult time.

Contact our Coronavirus support team by email advocacy@irishdeafsociety.ie or text/call 086 440 1443.

IDS fundraising is seriously impacted by the Coronavirus Emergency. Support us by donating now. You can also support IDS by joining or renewing your membership on our membership page.

The Scheme to Support National Organisations is funded by the Government of Ireland through the Department of Rural and Community Development”.

     Latest Facebook Posts

Irish Deaf Society