Interpreters protest pay cuts at Workplace Relations Commission

Interpreters working for the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) are upset over new changes to their pay. The changes come as a new contractor, Translit, takes over the coordination of interpreter services. Previously, interpreters were paid in full even if cases were postponed shortly after they started. Now, interpreters say they will not get paid for bookings canceled more than 24 hours in advance. For last-minute cancellations or cases that are quickly adjourned, they will receive only a payment for 30 minutes of work. Additionally, travel expenses that interpreters used to receive have been eliminated. The Association of Translators and Interpreters Ireland (ATII) expressed concern that these changes will make it difficult for interpreters to make a living. They estimate that cancellation rates for assignments may be as high as 50 percent. The demand for interpreters at the WRC has increased significantly, from 358 instances in 2022 to 529 in 2023. Interpreters play a vital role in hospitals, police stations, and courts. The ATII chair, Mary Phelan, noted that many qualified interpreters will start to avoid WRC jobs if they do not receive adequate pay. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment stated that the new contract was awarded following proper public procurement procedures. They assured that the WRC would comply with all legal and employment requirements under the contract. Translit did not respond to the requests for comment on this issue.