Review of Sign Language Interpretation Services and Service ...

Table 7.2. Key areas for improvement in SLI services in Ireland and howthey will be addressedKey areas for Improvement How the future service model could address this areain SLI services in IrelandPoor access tointerpretation servicesin certain locationsThere is poor access to SLI services in many locations inIreland, particularly rural areas. The recommended futureservice model could address this issue by allowing for anumber of interpreters based in various locations to beemployed/contracted (possibly on a part time basis) toprovide services in areas which are currently poorlyserviced. Also, access to interpretation services could befacilitated by remote interpreting, which should be rolledout to support increased provision in rural areas.Inadequate fundingarrangementsTraditionally, funding levels for SLI services have beenregarded as inadequate and funding arrangements havebeen ad hoc and unclear. Under current legislation, allpublic service providers are obliged to make fundingavailable for SLI services for Deaf people seeking to accesstheir service. The Irish Sign Language InterpretationService, supported by Comhairle, should ensure thatpublic monies are well managed and monitored re. valuefor money. The State has responsibility to ensure provisionof appropriate levels of funding for the service. There is arequirement for core funding to develop the infrastructureof the new service, over and above the fees received.Funding should be negotiated by Comhairle with therelevant Government department(s).Lack of effectiveThe current SLI service has grown from small beginningsgovernance and leadership and emerged as a necessary 'stop gap' to provide a SLIof SLI servicesservice to Deaf people in Ireland. In the future servicemodel, Comhairle should have a clear oversight role, andresponsibility for delivering and leading the development ofSLI services should clearly be with the Irish Sign LanguageInterpretation Service.No formal complaintsprocedures for SLIservicesNo formal provision foremergency interpretingThe future service model should include the setting up ofan effective complaints procedure within the new entity(i.e. the Irish Sign Language Interpretation Service), withappropriate escalation procedures as required.The recommended future service model should, over time,provide extended access to SLI services, via a combinationof face-to-face and remote interpreting.page 120 • Review of Sign Language Interpretation Services and Service Requirements in Ireland