American Sign Language program receives permanent funding

The Government of Yukon is providing permanent funding of $170,000 per year for the American Sign Language (ASL) program. The program was initiated as a pilot in 2012 for two years and extended for another three years.

ASL interpretation is used by Yukon’s deaf and hard of hearing community to access a range of services and programs – including medical services, legal services, employment opportunities, training and community and cultural events.

Health and other service providers, businesses and organizations can book the ASL interpreter when a deaf client requests this service. Employers can book an interpreter for their deaf employee to allow those employees to participate more fully in key workplace activities and interactions such as staff meetings and training.

This permanent funding will provide long-term certainty for Yukoners who rely on sign language interpretation to access services. This program means that when a person visits a doctor or goes to a job interview they can feel confident that there is clear, two-way communication. It helps us create a more diverse and inclusive society in Yukon.

Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission Richard Mostyn

Quick facts 
  • ASL interpreting is available for a variety of settings such as medical, legal, government services, employment, training, community and cultural events, arts and entertainment, sporting events and other individual needs.

  • The ASL program provides the services of an accredited ASL interpreter at no direct cost to clients or service providers.

  • Since the program started in August 2012, over 5,546 hours of interpretation services were provided through 3,941 appointments.

Media contact 

Sunny Patch
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca

Nigel Allan
Communications, Public Service Commission
867-667-8902
nigel.allan@gov.yk.ca

News release #: 
18-062