Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

The HSE has provided access to interpretation services for aurally impaired citizens in hospitals. A survey carried out in June 2007 among all hospital groups found that, when required, interpretation services are provided directly by contracting the services of approved sign language practitioners; a number of hospitals have identified staff members with a knowledge of medical terminology who can use sign language; a number of sign language interpreters have been trained to work in hospitals; and arrangements have also been made with the National Association of the Deaf to provide interpretation services, when required and if available.

The HSE is obliged, under the provisions of the Disability Act 2005, to make its services accessible to people with disabilities, in as far as is practicable. In general, responsibility for ensuring that health services are accessible rests with local service providers. The sectoral plan prepared by the Department of Health and Children under the provisions of the Disability Act contains a range of measures to be taken by the HSE in this regard, including the designation of access officers, as set out in Part 3 of the Disability Act.

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