To ask the Minister of Health how he plans to ensure that deaf people can access emergency sign language interpreting services if in need of urgent medical assistance.

The Regional Communication Support Service (RCSS) was introduced on 1st April 2023 and offers a range of in-person and remote sign language interpreting services for health and social care appointments. The service is provided by Sign Language Interactions (SLI) by Sorenson.

It is apparent that the number of interpreters is insufficient to meet current and future demands in NI. SLI are working to increase the number of interpreters in NI. DfC are currently investing in an Interpreter Training Programme delivered by Foyle Deaf Association which provides for the training and registering of six British Sign Language and four Irish Sign Language interpreters. Additionally, the Department is investing in a further increase in the numbers of British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language interpreters through funding to Queen’s University Centre for Translation and Interpreting to deliver an MA in Interpreting for up to 20 Deaf and hearing students. This two-year course launched in September 2024.