Interpreters

• The person making the booking should give the interpreter any relevant background information in advance. This helps them prepare specialist vocabulary. (This may not always be possible for certain medical or Covid-19 appointments.)
• Interpreters research the topic they will be interpreting. They may contact you beforehand to check any terms or vocabulary they are unsure about.
• For longer or more intensive assignments, a second interpreter may be required.
• Position the interpreter beside you so the Deaf person can see both you and the interpreter clearly. Good lighting and a plain background behind the interpreter make communication easier.
• The conversation should be confidential. For Deaf people, this often means using a room where blinds or curtains can cover windows. ISL is visual, so visible windows can distract or allow others to see the conversation.
• Maintain eye contact with the Deaf person and direct your questions to them, not the interpreter. Avoid phrases like “tell her/him…” or “did she/he…”.
• Do not say anything to the interpreter that you do not want repeated to the Deaf person. Do not ask the interpreter for personal opinions or involve them in the discussion.
• There is a natural time lag between languages. This is part of quality interpretation. Allow time for sentences to finish and speak in a normal tone, using complete sentences when possible.
• In group settings, ensure only one person speaks at a time. Overlapping speech makes it difficult for the interpreter to relay information accurately.

Opening hours

• Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 8.00pm (last appointment 7.30pm)

• Saturday: 10.00am to 4.00pm (last appointment 3.30pm)

• Sunday: 12.00pm to 2.00pm (last appointment 1.30pm)

What IRIS is suitable for

• Short meetings and information queries

• Phone calls such as paying a bill, contacting Revenue, making appointments

• Queries to councils, insurance or utility companies

• Brief one-to-one meetings

What IRIS is not suitable for

• Solicitors or legal meetings

• Medical consultations

• Complaints or disciplinary procedures

• Group meetings or interviews

• Garda statements

Cost
IRIS is free for Deaf people and most public service providers.

How to book
You can book IRIS directly with SLIS:

• Email: remote@slis.ie

• Text: 086 012 5900

• Landline: 0818 07 8440

Online booking is also available. IRIS will send you a confirmation email with your Zoom link.

More information
For full details, including how IRIS works, technical setup, and a step-by-step booking guide, visit the SLIS website:
https://slis.ie/iris/