The City of Sault Ste. Marie is enhancing accessibility by expanding its Quick Access Video Remote Interpretation (VRI) service to additional community locations. The service, provided in partnership with Canadian Hearing Services, supports Deaf customers who use American Sign Language (ASL) or Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ). In addition to being available at the Ronald A. Irwin Civic Centre, the service will be available at the Bay Street Active Living Centre and the Northern Community Centre community space.
Canadian Hearing Services’ Quick Access VRI connects Deaf customers with a remote ASL/LSQ interpreter through a laptop or tablet, ensuring effective communication during in-person visits. The system includes a video screen, microphone, and speaker, and is designed to support brief customer service interactions.
A community launch event for the expanded service will take place on February 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Bay Street Active Living Centre. The event will feature live demonstrations, allowing attendees to see and experience how the service works. Light refreshments will be available.
“The pilot program has been available at Ronald A. Irwin Civic Centre for the past year, and we are committed to continuing the Quick Access Video Remote Interpretation service through a second one-year trial in partnership with Canadian Hearing Services. Based on its use, there may be opportunities to expand Quick Access VRI to other customer service areas,” states Diane Morrell, Accessibility Coordinator.
The VRI service is designed for brief in-person interactions. For longer meetings or public events, pre-scheduled ASL interpretation is available upon request. For more information about this initiative or to access the service, contact the City’s Accessibility office at 705-541-7310.