The Cork Sign Language Interpreting Team near St Mary's Dominican Church

Interpreters work where Deaf and hearing people interact, but do not share a common language or mode of communication. We render spoken language information into sign language, and sign language information into spoken language. Information passed on will be accurate, unedited and will contain the nuances, tone, and intent of the original speaker or signer.

Not only are the languages of Irish Sign Language and English very different grammatically and in terms of modality, but Deaf people also belong to a distinct cultural group known as ‘the Deaf Community’. This group has its own values, norms and collective community spirit. Deaf culture is a rich and varied one with its own distinct heritage. Deaf cultural indicators and signals will differ from hearing culture. Interpreters will bridge this gap between cultures by adapting information and making it accessible in the language and culture of the recipient.

We are impartial professionals who in general do not give their own opinions or views – we facilitate the communication of others. Information will not be edited, although an element of ‘cultural adjustment’ may be present, when trying to translate a word, phrase or concept into the other language.

We are professionals who follow a Code of Ethics which can be provided upon request. We are strictly bound by confidentiality when on assignment.

The correct term for our job is interpreter or, being more specific, ISL / English Interpreter. We work in a wide variety of fields, including:

• Educational interpreting at all levels from primary and secondary, through to third level, degree to PhD
• Medical interpreting – consultations with GPs and specialists, mental health interpreting
• Religious interpreting – weddings, funerals, communions, etc.
• Conference and public event interpreting
• Job interviews and workplace training
• Theatrical, musical, entertainment and television interpreting
• Deaf interpreting – working alongside skilled Deaf colleagues for certain categories of vulnerable clients

Interpreting is a highly technical and cognitively demanding task. The reliability and quality of interpretation will decrease over time if interpreters work alone or do not have sufficient breaks. Please be guided by interpreters in the management of these important health and safety issues.