Ep.16: The Hidden Struggle: Canada’s Shortage of Legal Translators and Interpreters.

Research links survey:French: https://surveys.mcgill.ca/ls3/528889?...English: https://surveys.mcgill.ca/ls3/528889?...SummaryIn this episode of the Found in Interpretation podcast, hosts Alain Breton and Brian Bickford welcome Dr. Marie-Hélène Girard, an expert in legal translation and interpretation. The conversation delves into the ongoing shortage of legal translators and interpreters in Canada, exploring the reasons behind this issue, including working conditions, salary disparities, and the need for better education and promotion of the profession. Dr. Girard discusses her research, which includes a survey aimed at gathering insights from interpreters and translators, and emphasizes the importance of specialization in legal interpretation. The episode concludes with a focus on the role of data in improving access to justice and the future directions for the profession. In this conversation, the participants discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field of legal interpretation and translation in Canada. They emphasize the importance of raising awareness about the profession, the need for better working conditions, and the significance of access to justice in both official languages. The discussion also touches on educational pathways for aspiring interpreters, the negotiation of rates, and the importance of surveys to gather insights from the community. The conversation concludes with a call for future research, particularly regarding Indigenous languages and their representation in the legal system.TakeawaysThere is a significant shortage of legal translators and interpreters in Canada.The research aims to gather data on interpreter satisfaction and career choices.Working conditions and salaries for legal interpreters are often inadequate.Specialization in legal interpretation is crucial for effective practice.The perception of a shortage may stem from a lack of awareness about the profession.Education and promotion of the interpreting profession are necessary.Data collection is essential for advocating for better working conditions.The stakes in legal interpretation are high, impacting lives and justice outcomes.Interpreters often face challenges in gaining recognition for their expertise.Access to justice is a key goal of the ongoing research efforts. The goal is to raise awareness about legal interpretation.Workshops for judges and lawyers could enhance understanding.Educational programs for legal translation are essential.Working conditions in legal interpretation can be challenging.Negotiating rates is important for interpreters' livelihoods.Surveys help gather valuable insights from interpreters.Access to justice must include language considerations.The survey welcomes responses from part-time interpreters.Future research should include Indigenous languages.Canada's bilingual nature necessitates effective legal interpretation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest05:56 Survey Insights and Challenges in the Field15:39 Working Conditions and Salary Disparities25:31 Conclusion: Access to Justice and Future Directions31:18 Understanding the Legal Interpretation Landscape37:21 Access to Justice and Language Barriers