a person who has high-level skills in two languages, English and British Sign Language (in the United Kingdom), and who has had special training in the theory and practice of interpreting (comparable to a spoken language interpreter)
a professional who facilitates communication between persons who are deaf and those who are hearing
a professional who is fluent in both a spoken language as well as sign language
a trained professional who facilitates communication and conveys all auditory and signed information so that both hearing and deaf individuals may fully interact
A sign language interpreter conveys information presented by a hearing person in spoken English to a deaf person in sign language format, and conveys information presented by a deaf or hard of hearing person in sign language to a hearing person in spoken English format.
A trained professional who acts as an intermediary between those who use Sign Language and those who use speech. 'Accredited' Sign Language interpreters have achieved the professional standards established by an official provincial body. 'Certified' sign language interpreters have achieved professional status through the Association of Visual Language Interpreters of Canada. To request interpreter services, call the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada: 613-996-3346 or 613-996-0921. Arrangements for an interpreter should be made as early as possible (one month in advance is advisable).
