The Sign Language Interpreting Service (SLIS) is the national organisation for ISL interpreting services in Ireland.  SLIS is supported and funded by The Citizens Information Board (CIB).  

Our vision is that “All Deaf people live as full and equal citizens”. 

SLIS provides access to interpreters and services in three main ways:

1. IRIS – the Irish Remote Interpreting Service.

IRIS provides an online video link to Irish Sign language (ISL) interpreters, to enable Deaf people to access everyday services, both public and private, including healthcare, legal and education and training. IRIS is available seven days per week, year-round, excluding bank holidays and Christmas week (24^th Dec – New Years’ Day).

Book an IRIS appointment via our website (www.slis.ie) at https://iris2.gettimely.com/ You can also text 086-0125900 or email: [email protected]

2. Support in using Irish Sign language (ISL)interpreters 

• Emergency Text/Phone Service: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week all year round, this service enables sign language interpreters to be contacted in the event of medical/legal crises after office hours. Emergency Contact: 087-6725179.
• A Social Inclusion “Voucher Scheme” for access to interpreters forsocial, educational and cultural events and services (including medical) and other activities, as per ISL Act 2017, with funding supplied by the Minister for Social Protection, via CIB. 

To apply for a voucher, please text: 083-3814255 or email: [email protected]

• A Referral Service linking service providers and Deaf people to interpreters, for general and public information, events or public or private services.
• GP appointments– We arrange for interpreters at GP appointments as needed.  This service is funded by the HSE.
• An Access Servicereducing barriers for Deaf citizens and supporting service providers to be more accessible to Deaf people.

To contact the referral, access or GP services, please text: 087-9806996 or
email: [email protected]

3. Quality Service development and innovation.

• SLIS services show continuous successful delivery and growth across all services.
• SLIS strategic plan 2024-2028 highlights service delivery has trebled over the last decade
  • for the number of referral requests facilitated and
  • for the number of IRIS assignments arranged. 
• Access to GPs and primary care, in collaboration with the HSE, continues to increase
• The Voucher Scheme is very successful and supports social inclusion for Deaf people.
• SLIS are grateful to our wonderful staff, who continue to perform to a high level.