Published on May 24, 2002

Hearing-impaired people are no longer left out when it comes to a no-confidence debate, as sign-language interpreters are diligently performing their duty during the live TV broadcasts of the ongoing censure debate.

Tune into Channel 9 or Channel 11 and the censure debate is conveyed in sign language from a corner of the screen.

"It's the first time a censure debate has had sign-language interpretation throughout the session," said Juthamas Sukthanawattanacharoen.

Juthamas was among seven special translators from the Association for Deaf People of Thailand who took on the job, which has boosted hearing-impaired viewers' access to political news.

Each interpreter takes turns in front of the camera every 15 minutes.

Asked whose rhetoric was the most difficult to translate, Juthamas cited Democrat MP Peeraphan Saliratwipak, due to his use of military terms, despite her research on the subject beforehand.

"Another tough task is translating (Muanchon MP) Chalerm Yoobamrung because he speaks quite fast and often uses figures of speech.

I must perform sign language very carefully to ensure that the meaning is accurate," she said.

As to which politician made their job easiest, Juthamas did not hesitate to name Opposition leader Chuan Leekpai. With his excellent delivery, and simple language, she finds Chuan's rhetoric can be translated point by point.

In addition to doing background research on the debate, Juthamas said she has another technique to get the message across - a simple, soft-coloured dress.

"Too colourful clothing and designs can dazzle the viewers," she said.Narong Thanomlek, another translator, said the job is not easy because aside from meaning he must also get the feeling and atmosphere of the debate across to his viewers.

"I am tired, but my efforts are useful for the deaf people", he said.

Narong applauded the administration for arranging sign-language interpretation of the debate. However, he said it would be better if the interpreters were given their won space in the Parliament building.

"We are working next to where reporters and photographers work and this is quite a problem as their chatting and camera work distract our attention," he said.

Although they do not yet know how much money they will be paid, both Juthamas and Narong hope the government will arrange sign-language interpretation at the next censure debate to give hearing-impaired people increased access to political news.

Raphasri Osathanont

THE NATION

'More fun than night TV'

What's being said about the debate:

"I think both sides of the house have done their homework. Even if this censure debate does not cause changes in the government, the aim of the opposition is probably to provide the National Counter Corruption Commission with solid evidence which could cause some of the ministers to lose their positions." - Watchara Malikaew, merchant, Phuket

"The beginning of the debate was certainly bland . . . I'm concerned about Chuan Leekpai, he appears weaker . . . It's a little more fun than night drama." - Lhao Kamsree, Si Sa Ket province

"Several of the ministers do not appear skilled enough . . . They don't seem to have a grasp of the facts and have to read messages sent by their team. The defence minister should definitely be removed." - Akom Kiewbanyang, self-employed worker, Phitsanulok

"Information from both sides confused the public . . . Prapat [Panyachatraksa, deputy agriculture minister] must know in his heart whether he encroached on National Reserve land . . . we will have to wait for the NCCC to judge." - Sakorn Krachai, contractor, Lampang

"Suwit Khunkitti [Education Minister] appears knowledgeable . . . When the opposition talked about his religious ceremonies for better luck, he explained that it was an Isaan tradition, and he saw no harm to it." - Kuankid Kaewbanlao, teacher, Khon Kaen

"I was satisfied with Chuan Leekpai's performance, as well as the rest of the opposition which managed to show flair and had clear information." - Jaruay Suwannamo, chairperson of Ban Sala, Satun province

"Information from the opposition shows that the education reforms are slow and could have further obstacles due to a lack of transparency." - Aran Hensawang, chairperson of the Mae Nam Klong network, Kanchanaburi province.