> Tues 23rd Sept
International Day of Sign Languages
Barriers to Studying and Working as an ISL Interpreter
The Irish Deaf Society is proud to host today’s event launching the report “Barriers to Studying and Working as an ISL Interpreter”, developed in partnership with Dr. Gearóidín McEvoy.
This important research strengthens the case for increasing the number of ISL interpreters in Ireland — ensuring equal access and upholding the rights of Deaf communities.
Today also marks International Week of Deaf People 2025 (#IWDP25) and the International Day of Sign Languages (#IDSL2025). This year’s theme “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights” reminds us why action is so urgent.
Irish Rail
The Irish Deaf Society has partnered with Irish Rail to celebrate accessibility, collaboration, and public awareness.
Digital posters will be displayed in Heuston, Tara, and Pearse Stations, showcasing Irish Sign Language (ISL) videos connected to everyday rail journeys.
This initiative reflects this year’s global theme: “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.”
Did you know....
Did you know Irish Sign Language has its own grammar, syntax and rules? ISL is a full and natural language — not based on English or Irish.
Did you know....
Being Deaf is not about disability. It is about language, culture, and belonging. Protecting sign language rights means protecting the culture and identity of Deaf people everywhere.
Barriers to Studying and Working as an ISL Interpreter: Research Report
The Irish Deaf Society is proud to present the research report: “Barriers to Studying and Working as an ISL Interpreter: Developing an Evidence Base in Order to Launch a Campaign to Increase the Number of ISL Interpreters in Ireland.”
Developed by Dr. Gearóidín McEvoy in partnership with the Irish Deaf Society, this research is an important step towards achieving one of our core strategic goals in the Strategic Plan 2023 – 2026: to campaign for an increase in the number of ISL interpreters in Ireland.
We also heard contributions from:
John Stewart, National Manager, Slis Ireland
Liam Herrick, Chief Commissioner, Irish Human Rights & Equality Commission
Lianne Quigley, Chairperson, Irish Deaf Society
With honourable mentions from our Advocacy Manager Elaine Grehan and CEO John Sherwin, plus a statement from the Council of Irish Sign Language Interpreters (CISLI).
You can read the full report here - Download report
Keep an eye out on our social media – Facebook / X.com / Instagram for updates #IWDP25 #IWDP #IDSL #ISLAwarenessWeek
