Agenzija Sapport launches sign language interpretation service

Parliamentary secretary for people with a disability Justyne Caruana launched a sign language interpretation service under Agenzija Sapport earlier today. 

“There are already 65 people making use of this service,” she said, adding that the service was available on a booking basis and useable for various activities including social events. 

Caruana said that there were currently four sign language interpreters offering their services under the scheme, but she expressed hopes that the educational sector would be expanded to create a proper university degree for the subject.

“The demand for this service is there and people who are interested in the sector can rest assured that there will be job opportunities,” she said, stressing the opportunities this service would also open up for those who are hard of hearing.

Professor Marie Alexander explained that there was currently no official course for sign lnguage interpretation, with many of those working as such having had to undergo intensive courses, very often undertaken abroad. 

“The linguistics department is currently offering the course for those interested, but those who apply for the course have to possess expertise in the three subjects (Maltese, English and Sign language) in advance.

“We hope that the possibility for them to be recruited by the government service will encourage more people to consider a course and employment in the sector,” she added.

During the press conference, Caruana also outlined the efforts being made by the government to facilitate life and increase opportunities for people with hearing impairments.

“A draft legislation to introduce a Maltese sign language is already at committee level and there is currently a pilot project with PBS about subtitling for a major drama series underway,” she said, hoping that the service would also be extended and become commonplace in the near future. 

She added that the secretariat was also funding a course in sign language for Gozitan students. 

“We have also worked with police to create an SMS emergency number for those who are hard of hearing to be able to access emergency services,” she added.

Those interested in the service were invited to call 7900 5988 or visit www.sapport.gov.mt for further information.