Imelda Munster
Question:307. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Social Protection the current position regarding the Irish sign language voucher scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8799/24]
View answerTuesday, 27 February 2024
Questions (307)
Written answers
Section 9 of the Irish Sign Language (ISL) Act, 2017 assigns responsibility to the Minister for Social Protection to provide funds to facilitate users of ISL to access social, educational and cultural events and services (including medical) and other activities.
I assigned the implementation of this responsibility to the Citizens Information Board (CIB), the statutory body under the aegis of my Department, which in turn assigned delivery to its Service Delivery Company, the Sign Language Interpreting Service (SLIS).
Following a four-month pilot of a Voucher Scheme in 2021 by SLIS, supported by my Department and CIB, I was delighted to see the commencement of the Scheme on a permanent basis from 2nd October 2023. A funding allocation has been secured by my Department for the Scheme for 2024.
On 9th February last, my Department became aware that the Voucher Scheme was due to cease temporarily with effect from 20th February.
Following an urgent meeting requested and chaired by my Department on 13th February, with CIB and SLIS, all parties re-affirmed their respective commitments to the Voucher Scheme and recognised its vital role in supporting members of the Deaf community to fully participate in society. At that meeting, CIB and SLIS agreed a pathway forward to ensure the continued delivery of the Scheme past the 20th February.
A full joint statement from all three organisations issued on 15th February, accompanied by an ISL video version.
As previously stated, I am fully committed to the ISL Voucher Scheme now and into the future and I am happy that a pathway forward has been agreed.