Asorbier marks 30 years by calling for more sign language interpreters

The Association of Deaf People of El Bierzo (Asorbier) celebrated its 30th anniversary with an event in Ponferrada that served as both a commemoration and a call for increased resources. While the association has seen progress, including a move to a new headquarters provided by the Ponferrada City Council, leadership emphasized that significant barriers to full integration remain.

Asorbier president Juan Manuel Quiroga highlighted a critical shortage of sign language interpreters, noting that the association currently relies on a single official interpreter who works only on weekday mornings. This lack of availability creates significant obstacles for deaf individuals attempting to access essential services, such as medical appointments, banking, legal consultations, and educational activities.

Ponferrada Mayor Marco Morala attended the ceremony, praising the association’s three decades of work and commitment to social solidarity. He noted recent local improvements, such as the inclusion of sign language interpreters in city council plenary sessions and at the Bergidum theater, but the association continues to advocate for more public investment to ensure consistent communicative support for its members and the wider deaf community.