Webinar Recordings
Our webinars aim to inform, connect, and encourage discussion on key topics that impact the Deaf community in Ireland. Each session is hosted by the Irish Deaf Society and features Deaf leaders, advocates, and partners sharing their knowledge and experience.
If you are interested in collaborating with the IDS on a future discussion or webinar, we would love to hear from you. You can also become a member to receive updates on upcoming webinars, talks, and community events.
For more information or to discuss partnership opportunities, please contact our team at info@irishdeafsociety.ie
Irish Deaf Society - Position Paper on Mental Health
Fri, 10th October 2025
The Irish Deaf Society believes that good mental health and access to services in Irish Sign Language (ISL) are basic rights for every Deaf person. Our Mental Health Position Paper highlights how communication barriers, isolation, and language deprivation make Deaf people more vulnerable to poor mental health. It also calls for the creation of a national Deaf mental health service, led by Deaf professionals fluent in ISL, and for stronger Deaf awareness among mental health staff.
Please watch the recorded webinar above to hear from our speakers and learn more about the key issues and recommendations discussed during the launch. You can also read the full Mental Health Position Paper here, Irish Deaf Society's Position Paper on Mental health
This paper was developed in consultation with Deaf community members and professionals including Karen Sinnott, Breda O’Grady, Senan Dunne, Emma Barrow, Brendan Lennon (Chime), Carri O’Donnell, Ray Greene, Vanessa O’Connell, Robert McAra, and IDS representatives Elaine Grehan, John Sherwin, Edel Walsh, and Robyn Cunneen.
For more information, contact the Irish Deaf Society at: info@irishdeafsociety.ie | Phone: +353 1 860 1878 | Text: +353 86 380 7033 | www.deaf.ie
CODA na hÉireann – Exploring the CODA Experience in Ireland
Thurs, 24th April 2025
The Irish Deaf Society believes that identity, language, and community are deeply connected. This webinar focused on the experiences of CODAs (Children of Deaf Adults) and how growing up between Deaf and hearing worlds shapes identity, communication, and belonging.
Our guest speakers Catherine White, Elaine Grehan, and Professor John Bosco Conama shared their insights on CODA identity, family dynamics, and the importance of recognising CODAs as part of the Deaf community. The discussion explored how awareness, understanding, and visibility of CODAs can strengthen inclusion and connection between Deaf and hearing communities.
Please watch the recorded webinar above to learn more about the lived experiences shared and the key messages highlighted during this discussion.
For more information, contact the Irish Deaf Society at: info@irishdeafsociety.ie | Phone: +353 1 860 1878 | Text: +353 86 380 7033 | www.deaf.ie