What is a fair rate of pay for interpreters?
I am confused by the fact that professional interpreters find it necessary to refute Ministers' statements suggesting that some of us may earn a six figure sum. If we do, what of it? Whose business is it anyway? I am not saying that interpreters do earn six figure sums, but if they did, why would it matter? We are professionals qualified to a degree level and beyond. Nobody seems to mind that other professionals earn six figure sums.
It seems to me that the MOJ cannot stomach the fact that interpreters, the vast majority of whom are foreign, should be earning more than the minimum wage and enjoy a reasonable standard of living. If interpreters are prepared to work 24/7 and sacrifice their social and family life, why should they not earn a six figure sum? It seems to me that the ALS contract was not designed to make efficiency savings; these could have been achieved by other, more reasonable means. The only purpose of this infamous contract seems to be the slashing of "foreigners'" pay. So much for political correctness and equality.
