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Dr. John Conama
Project Manager, C.L.C.S.
Project Manager, Centre for Deaf Studies

Biography

Dr John Bosco Conama, Ph.D., M. Litt, BA in Social Policy, is a prominent figure in Deaf studies and advocacy, currently serving as the Director of the Centre for Deaf Studies and an Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin. As Vice-Chair of the Irish Deaf Society and co-chair of the group implementing the Irish Sign Language Act, he actively shapes policies to enhance the rights and inclusion of Deaf individuals. Dr Conama's commitment to equity is further demonstrated through his membership in the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission's disability advisory committee. His academic journey, culminating in a Ph.D. in Equality Studies from University College Dublin, focuses on language rights and social justice for Deaf communities. Recognized as the Language Ambassador of the Year 2015, his efforts in promoting and preserving Irish Sign Language are widely acclaimed, and his scholarly publications inform discourse on Deaf individuals' experiences and the importance of social policies in safeguarding linguistic diversity. Beyond academia, Dr Conama's leadership as Chair of the Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign reflects his dedication to advancing Deaf rights through activism and scholarship, advocating for equality, inclusion, and empowerment within the Deaf community and society.

Publications and Further Research Outputs

Peer-Reviewed Publications

Audism in Systemic Policies in, editor(s)Patrick Boudreault and Genie Gertz , Audism TExtbook, Oxford University Press, 2025, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2025

John Bosco Conama, "It takes a village to raise a deaf child": The community context in deaf education in Ireland., REACH Journal is the Journal of Inclusive Education in Ireland., 2024 Journal Article, 2024

John Bosco Conama, The Impact of Language Education Policies on Irish Sign Language in Irish Deaf Education, Audism TExtbook, 18-20 October, edited by Patrick Boudreault and Genie Gertz , Oxford University Press, 2024 Conference Paper, 2024

John Bosco Conama, Ableism and Audism in Academia: Equity Literacy as the Promised Solution., Rethinking Marginality: Inclusion and Ableism, Pharos University in Alexandria, Egypt, 1-3 March, 2024 Conference Paper, 2024

Chapter 50: No sign of it: The aftermath of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017 in, editor(s)Darquennes, Jeroen (CoI)Salmons, Joseph (CoI)Vandenbussche, Wim (CoI) , Language Contact: An international handbook. Volume 2, 2024, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2024

John Bosco Conama, The Sense of Community: Irish Deaf Community, Gallaudet University Press, 2024 Book, 2024

John Bosco Conama, "A people remarkable for action and gesticulation -nrSir William ilde (1815-1876) and his survey on deaf people (1854), Sign Language Studies, 23, (2), 2023, p137 - 163 Journal Article, 2023 URL

John Bosco Conama, No sign of it: the aftermath of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017, Authority, Power and Language, Univeristy of Limerick, 18-20 October, 2022 Conference Paper, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Sense of Community, Language and Life in D/deaf Communities, University of Bern , Switzerland, 18-19 November, 2022, Center for the Study of Language and Society (CSLS) at the University of Bern, Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, How To Sign On And Stay There: SNAPSHOT OF THE FEELING OF BELONGING WITHIN THE IRISH DEAF COMMUNITY." , Irish Journal of Sociology, 2022 Journal Article, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Progress Report on the Sense of the Community research, TEANGA - Irish Association for Applied Linguistics , 2021 Journal Article, 2021 URL

Access to employment for deaf graduates, employees and jobseeking signers: findings from the DESIGNS project in, editor(s)Dr Goedele de Klerk , UNCRPD Implementation in Europe - A Deaf Perspective 9: Access to information and communication, Brussels, European Union of the Deaf, 2021, pp179 - 193, [Haaris Sheikh, Jemina Napier, Audrey Cameron, Lorraine Leeson, Christian Rathmann, Chris Peters, John Bosco Conama, Rachel Moiselle, ] Book Chapter, 2021 TARA - Full Text URL URL

The Bumpy Journey towards the Irish Sign Language Act: Critical Considerations and Personal Reflections of a Deaf Activist -Scholar in, editor(s)Clare Cunningham and Chris Hall (York St John's University) , Vulnerabilities, Challenges and Risks in Applied Linguistics, De Gruyter, 2021, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2021

Approved communication support for deaf patients in Ireland during COVID-1 in, editor(s)Goedele A,.M. DeClerk , European survey on state responses to the pandemic, European Union of the Deaf., European Union of the Deaf, 2021, pp94 - 98, [ii) Grehan, Elaine, John Bosco Conama & John Sherwin ] Book Chapter, 2021 TARA - Full Text

Approved communication support for deaf patients in Ireland during COVID-19 in, editor(s)Dr Goedele de Klerk , UNCRPD Implementation in Europe - A Deaf PerspectiveArticle 9: Access to information and communication, Brussels, European Union of the Deaf, 2021, pp94 - 98, [John Bosco Conama, Elaine Grehan and John Sherwin] Book Chapter, 2021

Jemina Napier, Audrey Cameron, Lorraine Leeson, John Bosco Conama, Christian Rathmann, Chris Peters & Haaris Sheikh, DESIGNS: Creating Employment for Deaf Signers in Europe, 5, Dublin, Centre for Deaf Studies, Trinity College Dublin, January, 2020 Report, 2020 URL

35 Years and Counting! An Ethnographic Analysis of Sign Language Ideologies within the Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign in, editor(s)Annelies Kusters , Sign Language Ideologies in Practice, De Gruyter, 2020, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2020 URL

John Bosco Conama and Cormac Leonard, In Search of ISL's Pre-History: The complex origins of Irish sign language(s), TEANGA - Irish Association of Applied Linguistics, 2020, phttps://doi.org/10.35903/teang Journal Article, 2020 DOI

Sign Language Communities in, Hogan-Brun & O'Rourke , Handbook on Minority Languages and Communities (, Palgrave Macmillan, 2019, [Maartje De Meulder, Verena Krausneker, Graham Turner, John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2019 DOI

John Bosco Conama, ISL recognition and its implementation, DFIG conference, University of Wolverhampton, 13th February, 2019, University of Wolverhampton Invited Talk, 2019

Christian Rathmann, Chris Peters, Anna Grimm, Andreas Bittner, and Aletta Heldt (German version). Original Version in English: Haaris Sheikh, Lorraine Leeson, Caroline McGrotty and John Bosco Conama, Sie Haben Den Job! Ein Leitfaden für Arbeitgeber_innen im Umgang mit tauben Gebärdensprachnutzer_innen. Dublin: IGI Publishing. , Dublin, IGI Publishing, 2019, 1 - 54pp Book, 2019 URL

John Bosco Conama, Maartje De Meulder, Joseph J. Murray, Rachel L. McKee, 1. `Ah, That"s Not Necessary, You Can Read English Instead": An Analysis of State Language Policy Concerning Irish Sign Language and Its Effects, TheLegal Recognition of Sign Languages, 2019, p19--35 Journal Article, 2019

Ah, that's not necessary, you can read English instead": An ecological analysis of state language policy concerning Irish Sign Language, Irish and English and its effects in, editor(s)Maartje de Meulder, Jospeh Murray and Rachel McKee , Recognizing Sign Languages:
An International Overview Of National Campaigns For Sign Language Legislation And Their Outcomes, Multilingual Matters, 2019, pp19 - 35, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2019 URL

DESIGNS Team, 'Final Report', Dublin , Interesource Ltd, 2019, - Translation, 2019

Jemina Napier, Haaris Sheikh, Audrey Cameron, Lorraine Leeson, John Bosco Conama, Christian Rathmann, and Christian Peters, DESIGNS: Perspectives on Deaf people's access to employment through interpreters, European Forum of Sign Language Interpreters Conference, Dubrovnik, Croatia, September 2018, 2018 Oral Presentation, 2018 URL

Haaris Sheikh, John Bosco Conama and Lorraine Leeson, 'A Guide to Kilkenny Castle', Dublin: IGI Media, Office of Public Works (OPW), 2018, - Translation, 2018 URL

Sheikh, Haaris, Lorraine Leeson, Caroline McGrotty, Ann Heelan, John Bosco Conama, You're Hired! A Guide for Employers when Working with Deaf Sign Language Users, Dublin, IGI Publications, 2018, 1-51pp Book, 2018 URL

John Bosco Conama, Unconsciously or Consciously, the Principle of Zero-Sum Game Dominates Irish Deaf Education, Review of Language, Power, and Resistance, by Elizabeth S. Mathews , Sign Language Studies , 19, (2), 2018, p295-297. doi:10.1353/sls.2018. Review, 2018 URL

Heath Rose, John Bosco Conama, Linguistic imperialism: still a valid construct in the oppression of Irish Sign Language users, Language Policy, 2017 Journal Article, 2017 DOI

Language Attitudes: Equality Issues in, editor(s)Genie Gertz - Gallaudet University Patrick Boudreault - Gallaudet University , The SAGE Deaf Studies Encyclopedia, Sage, 2016, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2016

Sign Language: UK and Ireland in, editor(s)Genie Gertz, Patrick Boudreault , The SAGE Deaf Studies Encyclopedia, Sage, 2016, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2016

Article 33: how to maximise the benefits arising from this Article: some personal observations and suggestions. in, EUD UNCRPD Implementation Series UNCRPD IMPLEMENTATION IN EUROPE - A DEAF PERSPECTIVE, Brussels, European Union of the Deaf, 2015, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2015 URL

Lorraine Leeson, John Bosco Conama and Haaris Sheikh, Why Language Attitudes Matter: An evidence based approach, IRAAL 30th Anniversary Conference, Trinity College Dublin, 21 November 2015, 2015 Conference Paper, 2015 TARA - Full Text URL URL

Who decides? Language education policies for Deaf children - Selected findings from a comparative analysis of Finnish and Irish policies on signed languages. in, editor(s)Lorraine Leeson and Myriam Vermeerbergen , Lorraine Leeson and Myriam Vermeerbergen (eds), Working with the Deaf Community: Education, Mental Health and Interpreting , Dublin, Interesource Group (Ireland) Limited, 2015, [Dr. John Bosco Conama\] Book Chapter, 2015 TARA - Full Text

John Bosco Conama, Language policies and the campaign for Irish Sign Language recognition in the Republic of Ireland. , Recognition of Signed Languages in the UK and Ireland, Queen's University Belfast, 26/27 September, 2013, Translation and Interpreting Department Invited Talk, 2013

John Bosco Conama, Situating the socio-economic position of Irish Deaf Community in the equality framework, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, 32, (2), 2013, p173 - 194 Journal Article, 2013 DOI

John Bosco Conama, Language policies and the campaign for Irish Sign Language recognition in the Republic of Ireland. (edited from Belfast conference), 7th ISL 'themed' National Disability Strategy Implementation Group (NDSIG) meeting , Deaf Village Ireland, Cabra, Dublin 7, 28 November, 2013, Department of Justice, Law Reform and Eqaulity Invited Talk, 2013

Avril Mullane, John Bosco Conama and Robert Fourine, Human Rights and the Deaf Community in Ireland, Journal of Clinical Speech and Language Studies: the official journal of the Irish Association of Speech and Language Therapists, 18, 2012, p77 - 94 Journal Article, 2012 TARA - Full Text

Haaris Sheikh, Lorraine Leeson, John Bosco Conama, A Guide to Working with the Deaf Community in Education, Mental Health and Interpreting in Ireland , Dublin, IGI PUBLISHING, 2012, 32pp Book, 2012

John Bosco Conama, HIDDEN HISTORIES: Deaf Lives Ireland, Dublin, Interesource Group, 2012 Report, 2012 TARA - Full Text

John Bosco Conama, A Timely Reminder for Closer Collaboration, Review of Deaf around the world: The impact of language., by Mathur, G. and Napoli, D. J. (Eds.). , Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education, 17, (1), 2012, p140 Review, 2012 DOI URL

Mullane, A., Conama, J. B., & Fourie, R. J., 'Human rights and the Deaf community in Ireland: A critical discussion of Irish legislation'., Journal of Clinical Speech and Language Studie, 18, 2011 Journal Article, 2011

John Bosco Conama, Finnish and Irish Sign Languages: an egalitarian analysis of language policies and their effects, UCD, 2010 Thesis, 2010 TARA - Full Text

Lorraine Leeson, Brian Nolan and John Bosco Conama, TOWARDS BLENDED LEARNING FOR DEAF STUDIES AT THIRD LEVEL IN IRELAND,, EDULEARN 2009, Barcelona, Spain,, 6-9 July 2009, 2009 , 2009 Conference Paper, 2009 URL

Conama J. B., Potential of the Centre for Deaf Studies (CDS): its role in enhancing social justice for the Deaf community: a personal observation, Deaf Worlds, 21, (2), 2005 Journal Article, 2005 TARA - Full Text

Deaf communities in Ireland and Finland: a comparative analysis in, editor(s)Patrick McDonnell , Deaf Studies in Ireland: An Introduction, Colewell, UK, Douglas McLean, 2004, [Conama J. B.] Book Chapter, 2004 TARA - Full Text

Conama, John Bosco, Poverty in the deaf community, Poverty Today, (57), 2002, p13- Journal Article, 2002

John Bosco Conama, "Tourists in their own land" - A Social Policy Analysis of the Irish Deaf Community's Participation in Society., TCD, 2001 Thesis, 2001 TARA - Full Text

Non-Peer-Reviewed Publications

John Bosco Conama, No Sign of It: The Aftermath of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017, The Fact of Deafness: Perception, Representation, Visibility., Queens University, 21-22 March 2024, 2024 Conference Paper, 2024

John Bosco Conama, Changing the narrative, Changing the narrative, Sweden, 27th February, 2022, Saved By The Sign Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Sense of Community - Irish Deaf Community , Peaks and Valleys to Explore, Utah State University, USA, 4th April, 2022 Conference Paper, 2022

John Bosco Conama , Official recognition of the Irish Sign Language and the Irish Sign Language Act, Europena Union of the Deaf's Sign Language awareness Week, Zoom, 20 September 2022, 2022 Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Economic opportunities for Deaf people and employment benefits in the context of ISL Act, Zoom, 20 September 2022, 2022, Citizen Information Board Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language and Sense of Community, Gallaudet University, Washington DC USA, 12 October 2022, 2022, Department of Deaf Studies Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama , Language Activism and the campaign for recognition of Irish Sign Language as 3rd Ireland"s official language, BAQONDE Summer School 2022, TCD, 2nd August 2022, 2022 Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, Overview of ISL Act, Deaf Legal Theory and Sign Language Law workshop, University of Birmingham, 10 November, 2022 Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, "I did it...Didn't I? - Reflections on my doctoral graduation after more than a decade.", Breaking Boundaries: A Disabled Postgraduates PhD Journey, Trinity College Dublin, 15th March, 2022, forum for Disabled Staff and Postdoc students Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama, COIL workshop in Norway in November to discuss the future of Deaf Studies and interpreting the training in Europe., Oslo, Norway, 2-4 November , 2022, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University Invited Talk, 2022

John Bosco Conama , The Bumpy Journey Towards the Irish Sign Language Act: Critical Considerations and Personal Reflections of a Deaf Activist-Scholar, CDS Autumn Webinars , Zoom , 18th November , 2021, Centref or Deaf Stufies Invited Talk, 2021

John Bosco Conama, "Deaf" Alumni and Staff of Trinity College Dublin: with a special focus on James David Bourchier (1850-1920), National Heritage Week 2021 Deaf Heritage Conference , Zoom webinar , 14th August , 2021, Deaf Heritage Centre, Dublin Invited Talk, 2021 URL

Sir William Wilde and his book on deaf people in, Deaf Heritage Centre, 2021, [John Bosco Conama] Book Chapter, 2021

John Bosco Conama, A panel discussion on Zoom with the Heriot-Watt University masters course on interpreting (EUMASLI) , EUMASLI course , Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh, 4th February, 2021 Invited Talk, 2021

John Bosco Conama, Findings on ISL / "Fitting in" Issues Sense of Community Index Deaf Community in Ireland, 21st January 2021, In:Findings on ISL / "Fitting in" Issues Sense of Community Index Deaf Community in Ireland, 2021, Zoom webinar, John Bosco Conama Meetings /Conferences Organised, 2021 TARA - Full Text

Conor Fulham, Sense of Community - Literature Review , TCD, 2021 Thesis, 2021

John Bosco Conama and Carmel Grehan, Micro-ethics with a focus on microaggressions , Microethics , Dublin, 13 and 20 October, 2021, Sign Language Interpreting Services Invited Talk, 2021

John Bosco Conama, Guidelines for Public Bodies under the Irish Sign Language Act 2017, Guidelines for Public Bodies under the Irish Sign Language Act 2017, UCC, 29 January, 2021, UCC Invited Talk, 2021

Aoife Price, Attitudes of Deaf Staff towards hearing staff in Deaf organisations , TCD, 2021 Thesis, 2021

John Bosco Conama, The Irish Sign Language Act and other relevant issues, International Day of Sign Languages , Zoom Webinar - University of Limerick , 23rd September, 2021, University of Limerick Invited Talk, 2021 TARA - Full Text

John Bosco Conama, Sense of Community Index - the Irish Deaf Community - Third Community Dialogue , 25th February 2021, In:Sense of Community Index - the Irish Deaf Community, 2021, Zoom webinar , John Bosco Conama Meetings /Conferences Organised, 2021

John Bosco Conama, Human Rights in Times of Crisis by Dr John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Awareness Week 2021, YouTube, 26th September , 2021, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2021 URL

John Bosco Conama, Deaf Culture and Arts by Dr John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Awareness Week 2021, 25th September , 2021, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2021 URL

John Bosco Conama, "ISL teaching as a viable profession? Future and practical implications" , 24th June 2021, In:"ISL teaching as a viable profession? Future and practical implications" , 2021, Zoom webinar , John Bosco Conama Meetings /Conferences Organised, 2021

Kianna Higgins, How to improve online retailing for the Deaf community, TCD, 2021 Thesis, 2021

John Bosco Conama, 'Message to the Irish at home and abroad at Easter 2020', Áras an Uachtárain - President of Ireland, 2020, - Translation, 2020

John Bosco Conama, Initial Findings on the 'Sense of Community' survey, 13th October, 2020 , 2020, Zoom webinar, John Bosco Conama Meetings /Conferences Organised, 2020 TARA - Full Text

Claudine Murphy , Literacy Case Study: Limerick School for the Deaf, TCD, 2020 Thesis, 2020

John Bosco Conama, 'Message for Local, Regional and Community Radio Stations and Newspapers', Áras an Uachtárain - President of Ireland, 2020, - Translation, 2020

tina Murphy , Deaf People working as SNA's for hearing teachers in education settings., TCD, 2020 Thesis, 2020

Aoife Harrington, Supports provided to deaf and HOH students in third level education, Trinity College Dublin, 2020 Thesis, 2020

John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Act 2017, Implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), South Dublin Council Chamber, County Hall, Tallaght,, 4th April, 2019, 2019, South Dublin County Council Invited Talk, 2019

National Learning Network, 'The Rehab Group Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse Policy (IRE)', 2019, - Translation, 2019

SUPERVISED, Leah Murray, An Overview of the Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign 2013-17, Trinity College Dublin, 2019 Thesis, 2019

John Bosco Conama, Rights of Children to be Raised in their Families (including respect for culture) Respect for Family Life: Perspectives of Parents and Children, 11TH International Disability Law Summer School, National University of Ireland, Galway, 19th June, 2019, Centre for Disability and Law, NUIG Invited Talk, 2019

John Bosco Conama, Finding our political voice! A campaign for the ISL Recognition , "Signing Parliament" Workshop 1 , Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh SCOTLAND , 31/5/2019, 2019 Oral Presentation, 2019

SUPERVISED, Caomihe Cobrun-Gray, comparison of the positioning of ISL and ASL, nationally and internationally, based in linguistic prestige and imperialism, Trinity College Dublin, 2019 Thesis, 2019

John Bosco Conama, Finding our political voice! The background behind the Irish Sign Language Act 2017, "The Sound of Silence", Trinity Week 2019, Trinity College Dublin, 30th April, 2019, Trinity College Hub Invited Talk, 2019

Trinity College Dean of Research, 'A LIVING RESEARCH EXCELLENCE STRATEGY', In Irish Sign Language, Dublin , 2019, - Translation, 2019

John Bosco Conama, Rights Holders Perspectives on De-institutionalisaton and Implementing A19, De-institutionalisation and the implementation of the CRPD Article 19: Independent Living and being included in the community, Green Street, IHREC office, Dublin 1, 4th July, 2019, Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Invited Talk, 2019

Dr John Bosco Conama, Possible and probable implications of UNCRPD on the research process , Disability Research Network Seminar, University of Dublin, Trinity College, 3rd December 2019, 2019, Disability Research Network TCD Invited Talk, 2019

John Bosco Conama, "Some of us are looking at the stars" Employment Issues and Deaf ISL users, 2019 Working Paper, 2019

SUPERVISED, Elizabeth Quinn, Cochlear Implants and Deaf Identity , Trinity College Dublin, 2019 Thesis, 2019

John Bosco Conama, My Role as a Deaf Activist-Scholar in the ISL Recognition Campaign, TCD School of Education seminar, Disability: Political Representation and Activism. , UCD Student Centre, Belfield, Dublin 4., 18th May, 2018, Vivian Rath, School of Education TCD Invited Talk, 2018

John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Act 2017 A brief explanation and what to expect afterwards for ISL Teachers, Council of Irish Sign Language Teachers, Room 111, Centre for Deaf Studies, TCD, 18th August , 2018, Council of Irish Sign Language Teachers Invited Talk, 2018

SUPERVISED: , Durkin, Amy, Language Development in Deaf mainstreamed children, Trinity College Dublin, 2018 Thesis, 2018

John Bosco Conama, 35 Years and Counting! An Ethnographic Analysis of Sign Language Ideologies within the Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign, Irish Deaf Research Conference, Long Room Hub, TCD, 9th November, 2018 Conference Paper, 2018

SUPERVISED: , MURPHY, Catherine, Deaf Peoples' employment in the medical industry in Ireland, Trinity College Dublin, 2018 Thesis, 2018

SUPERVISED, LOFTUS, Natasha, Does mind colonisation correlate to the use of Irish Sign Language with the Deaf Community and the larger society., Trinity College Dublin, 2018 Thesis, 2018

John Bosco Conama, The Bumpy Journey towards the Irish Sign Language Act, University College Cork, 9th March, 2018, The ISS21 Disability and Mental Health research cluster Invited Talk, 2018

John Bosco Conama, Equality in the Academia: What Deaf Academics Can Do About It? , Deaf empowerment for Deaf academics, University College London, Room 305, Bedford Way, London, 29th June, 2018, UCL Deafness Cognition and Language Research Centre (DCAL) University College London Invited Talk, 2018

John Bosco Conama, A brief introduction to the ISL Act 2017, Copenhagen Deaf Club, Copenhagen, Denmark, 28th February, 2018, Danish Deaf Association Invited Talk, 2018

John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Act 2017: A brief explanation and what to expect afterwards, Community Dialogue, Deaf Village Ireland, Rathoath Road, Dublin 7, 17th February, 2018 Invited Talk, 2018

Dr. Audrey CAMERON Heriot-Watt University, Scotland Prof. Dr. Christian RATHMANN Professor of Deaf Studies, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Dr. John Bosco CONAMA Co-Director/Assistant Professor, Centre for Deaf Studies, TCD, Experiences of Deaf people at work: Preliminary ndings from research in the UK Germany and Ireland., Employment of sign language users in Europe, , 12th January, 2018, Invited Talk, 2018

John Bosco Conama, Irish Sign Language Act 2017: A brief introduction and its challenges, Challenging Times, Ballinasloe Library, 11th June, 2018, Western Region of Library Association of Ireland Invited Talk, 2018

Robyn Cunneen, SUPERVISED: A Two-Tiered Investigation into the Ideologies about the Recognition of Irish Sign Language: The d/Deaf Community of the Mid-West Region of Ireland and Senator Mark Daly", Trinity College Dublin, 2017 Thesis, 2017

John Bosco Conama, Haaris Sheikh, Lorraine Leeson, 'Irish Sign Language Guide for Kilkenny Castle,', Centre for Deaf Studies TCD, IGI MEDIA., 2017, - Translation, 2017

John Bosco Conama, Universities & Higher Learning and the Irish Deaf Community A heritage overview , ational Heritage Week 2017, Deaf heritage Centre, Deaf Village Ireland , 2017, Deaf Heritage Centre Invited Talk, 2017

John Bosco Conama, Haaris Sheikh, Lorraine Leeson, The DESIGNS Project: Deaf Employment in Europe, 8th Community Interpreting Conference, TCD ARTS BUILDING , 8 June 2017, 2017 Conference Paper, 2017

John Bosco Conama, The Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign, Dublin Language Garden , Trinity Long Room Hub, 22nd September , 2017, Dublin Language Garden Invited Talk, 2017

John Bosco Conama, Language and Human Rights in Ireland, Gallaudet University, Washington DC, USA, 1st March, 2016, This event is sponsored by the ASL & Deaf Studies Department. Invited Talk, 2016 URL

John Bosco Conama, Sign Language Politics , The future of Lithuanian Sign Language, University of Vilinus, Lithuania , 26th November , 2016, Lithuanian Deaf Association University of Applied Sciences (VIKO) Invited Talk, 2016

John Bosco Conama, Linguistic Imperialism and Irish Sign Language , Gallaudet University, Washington DC, 2016 Poster, 2016

John Bosco Conama, Language Policies and the Campaign for Irish Sign Language Recognition in the Republic of Ireland, Deaf Ethnographies and Politics - 7th Deaf Academics and Researchers , University of Leuven, Belgium, 7th February 2015, 2015 Conference Paper, 2015 URL URL

John Bosco Conama, Citizenship and Equality in the EU, nvisible in Europe: Exploring the meaning of reasonable accommodation form Deaf and Sign Language's perspective Conference, European Parliament, Brussels, 11th November, 2015, EPP Group, European Union of the Deaf Invited Talk, 2015

Dr. John Bosco Conama, Who decides? Language education policies for Deaf children - Selected findings from a comparative analysis of Finnish and Irish policies on signed languages. , DCAL Lunchtime Seminar, University College of London, London, UK, May 31, 2012, Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) Research Centre, Invited Talk, 2012

John Bosco Conama, 'Hidden Histories: Deaf Lives Ireland', Dublin , Interesource Ltd, 2012, - Exhibition, 2012 URL TARA - Full Text

Haaris Sheirk and Lorraine Leeson], A Guide to Working with the Deaf Community: In Education, Interpreting and Mental Health. , Dublin, Ireland, Interesource Publishing, 2012 Book, 2012

Conama, Dr. John Bosco, Equality of condition and Deafhood, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, April 19, 2011 Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco, Can an Equality of Condition for Signed Languages Advance Equality for Deaf Communities?, Gallaudet University, Washington DC, USA, April 26, 2011 Invited Talk, 2011

Dr. John Bosco Conama, Deafhood and Equality - Access to information and media, Deafhood Congress' in celebration of 30th anniversary of IDS' establishment, Chartered Accountancy Institute, Pearse Street, Dublin 2., November 5, 2011, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , From participation to emancipation: Equality of condition as a solution for signed language communities? , European Science Foundation - Exploratory Workshop , University of Bologna at Forli, Italy, April 3, 2011, European Science Foundation - Exploratory Workshop Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , From participation to emancipation: Equality of condition as a solution for signed language communities? , European Science Foundation - Exploratory Workshop "Visual Communication in Contemporary European Societies. Shaping Identities, Citizenship, Communities, Inclusion Strategies", University of Bologna at Forli, Italy, April 3, 2011, European Science Foundation - Exploratory Workshop Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco, Affective equality and Deaf education , National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology New York, Rochester Institute of Technology New York, April 21, 2011 Invited Talk, 2011

Dr. John Bosco Conama, Gibt es Armut innerhalb der Gehörlosen-Gemeinschaft ? Is there Poverty in the Irish Deaf Community? , Integration / Inklusion: Chancen und Risken, Montreux, Switzerland , September 23, , 2011 Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , Linguistic Rights: Equality of Condition for Deaf Sign Language Communities, Sign Language Rights: European and International Perspectives, Al, Norway, February 23-25, 2011, 2011 Conference Paper, 2011

Dr. John Bosco Conama, What is social inclusion and social exclusion? , IUK (Ireland and United Kingdom) Camp for the Deaf Children (13-17 years olds), Killary Harbour, Co.Galway, August 8, 2011, Irish Deaf Youth Association Invited Talk, 2011

Dr. John Bosco Conama, Can an Equality of Condition for Signed Languages Advance Equality for Deaf Communities? , Global Deaf Renaissance, 15th Congress of World Federation of the Deaf, Durban, South Africa, July 20, 2011, 2011 Conference Paper, 2011

Dr. John Bosco Conama, Access to information / services for Irish Sign Language users, "Improving your services for Deaf People" Seminar, , Chartered Accountancy Institute, Pearse Street, Dublin 2., October 27, 2011, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2011

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , Can an equality of condition for signed languages advance equality for Deaf communities?, Engaging Theory & Action, Deaf Studies Today , Utah Valley University Orem, Utah, USA, April 10, 2010 Invited Talk, 2010 TARA - Full Text

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , SUMMARY OF FINNISH AND IRISH SIGN LANGUAGES: AN EGALITARIAN ANALYSIS OF LANGUAGE POLICIES AND THEIR EFFECTS., National Disability Authority Lunchtime Seminar, Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, May 20, 2010, 2010 Conference Paper, 2010

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , SUMMARY OF FINNISH AND IRISH SIGN LANGUAGES: AN EGALITARIAN ANALYSIS OF LANGUAGE POLICIES AND THEIR EFFECTS., CDS Public Lecture Series, 2010-2011, Maxwell Hall, TCD, November 18, 2010, 2010 Conference Paper, 2010

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , To understand the equality framework is crucial for Deaf Studies to adapt in order to advance equality for Deaf communities., Deaf Studies: Strengthening our Heritage, University of Berlin, Germany, September 1-3, 2010 Conference Paper, 2010

Conama, Dr. John Bosco , A Partnership Approach to the delivery Of Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children: A policy document, Deaf Education Partnership Conference , Croke Park, Dublin, March 4, 2010, Catholic Institute for Deaf People, Irish Deaf Soceity, DeafHear.ie and Centre for Deaf Studies Invited Talk, 2010

Conama, John Bosco , Signed languages; What we should do with them in the policy context? , LPLL 2009: Language policy and language planning: new paradigms and new challenges, University of Limerick, 18-20 / 6 / 2009, 2009 Conference Paper, 2009

Conama, John Bosco: Centre for Deaf Studies, TCD, Evaluation of the Signing Information Mid-West Project, Limerick, PAUL Partnership, Limerick, June, 2008 Report, 2008 TARA - Full Text

Conama, John Bosco, IRELAND AND FINLAND: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TWO DEAF COMMUNITIES , Irish-Finnish Deaf Youth Exchange, Dublin, February , 2007, Irish Deaf Youth Association Invited Talk, 2007

Conama, John Bosco, Reflections on the interviewing process: Brief analysis of relationships with interviewees in both countries: Ireland and Finland., Lunchtime seminar, Centre for Deaf Studies, University of Bristol, February 16th, 2007, 2007 Conference Paper, 2007

Conama, John Bosco, Locating the societal position of the Irish Deaf community in the equality framework, Deaf Academics 2006, Stockholm University, August 2006, 2006 Conference Paper, 2006

Conama, John Bosco, Our campaign for Irish Sign Language (ISL), King's Hospital, Lucan, August , 2006, European Deaf Youth Association / Irish Deaf Youth Association Invited Talk, 2006

Conama, John Bosco, Code of Ethics, ISL Academy Workshop, Dublin, September, 2006, ISL Academy Invited Talk, 2006

Conama, John Bosco, Audism, Deaforward Citizenship Project, Dublin, November, 2005, Deaforward, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2005

Conama, John Bosco, What is citizenship? , Citizenship Workshop for Deaf People, Dublin, November, 2005, Deaforward, Irish Deaf Society Invited Talk, 2005

Conama, John Bosco , Diverse Needs of the Deaf Community. , Forum, Journal of the Irish College of General Practitioners, 21, (10), 2004 Journal Article, 2004

Conama, John Bosco, Talk on Irish Deaf Society, 1st IUK Deaf Youth Camp Ireland 2004, Dublin City University , August 10th, 2004, Irish Deaf Youth Association Invited Talk, 2004

Conama, John Bosco, Presentation on quality issues for Deaf people , Health Issues for Disabled People, Tullamore, Co.Offaly, Friday, January 31st, 2003, National Disability Authority's Invited Talk, 2003

Conama J. B., Equality and Deaf Communities, 14th Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf, 2003 Conference Paper, 2003

Conama J. B., Is There Poverty in the Deaf Community? Report on the interviews of randomly selected members of the Deaf Community in Dublin to determine the extent of poverty within the Community, 2002 Report, 2002 TARA - Full Text

Conama J. B., Poverty in the deaf community, Poverty Today, (57), 2002, p13 - 13 Journal Article, 2002

Conama J. B., Comparative Case Study - Deaf communities in Ireland and Finland, Irish Association of Teachers in Special Education's conference, June 9, 2001 Conference Paper, 2001

Conama J. B., McDonnell P., Irish Sign Language, Higher Education Equality Unit, Newsletter, 2001 Journal Article, 2001 TARA - Full Text

Research Expertise

Description

Deaf Cultural Studies, Equality Studies, Media Studies, Social Policy, Deaf Education, All relating to the Deaf communities in Ireland and beyond My overarching research objective is to deepen and extend my work on the topic of language policy and planning, examining, in particular, the impact of policy and planning tools used by governments regarding the status of Irish Sign Language and other signed languages. Within this broad objective, I have commenced work in Deaf cultural studies and equality studies, with a plan to secure funding to address the clear research gap in terms of Deaf perspectives in these areas. During my teaching, I have often been struck by students' interest in cultural issues specific to Ireland. Whilst students frequently ask for primary research on this topic, there is almost none related to Ireland. Whilst lecturers in Deaf Studies have recourse to examples from other countries or other cultures, these are not sophisticated enough for intensive study of the lived experiences of the Deaf community. Work in this area will include an examination of quality of social, cultural (including access to media) and employment services as used by Deaf people, from a critical social justice perspective. Some of these research objectives will be achieved through building on the European Commission-funded projects described above, with follow-up projects in the pipeline. Peers will evaluate my research by my participation in top international projects and initiatives of strategic and social importance, the rigour and the quality of my outputs, originality, creativity and innovation in theoretical and methodological frameworks, leadership skills, collaboration and my ability to extend my networks and share experience with research students and other colleagues. My work will also be evaluated by knowledge generation and transfer, my impact on the field and on civil society, my ability to translate ideas into concepts that can be clearly understood by local communities, my productivity and capacity to deliver outputs within agreed timeframes. Finally, making my work available and accessible through the medium of Irish Sign Language as well as English is a priority in my research plans, for the benefit of the Deaf community in Ireland.

Projects

  • Title
    • RESIDE: Resilience Inspires Deaf Communities
  • Summary
    • Overview There is a strong perception among members of the Irish deaf community that the language community is in decline. The bases traditionally ensured the continuation of Irish Sign Language (ISL) are dwindling. For instance, enrolments in residential schools for the deaf have been decreasing steadily, and the numbers involved in community social, sports and cultural activities have been falling. Technological advances, consolidation of educational policies for deaf children in mainstream education, individualisation, and increased social mobility have also impacted how the community operates. There is tentative evidence that the well-being and self-identity of deaf people are put under considerable pressure due to the failure to replace older models with better informed and sustainable models. Why research Community Resilience? According to research (Patel 2019 et al.), individual resilience can be supported by knowledge, networks, relationships, communication, health, governance and leadership. Such skills or values like that are essential for deaf people to navigate the wider world (Listmann and Kruz 2020). As we know from research (Sense of Community research project and other research works), older community models ("brick-and-mortar" model; deaf clubs, residential schools etc.) are unsustainable in the long term, especially in this age of information / technological advances. New models that can sustain the community in the long term need to be found and developed to ensure its members can be resilient to navigate this world. Such new models can inform key policymakers and direct future service providers. These new models can replace older models as a basis for reinforcing the status of ISL in future. The ISL Act's first clause recognises the community's right to preserve the ISL. Aims " To investigate the role of the deaf community as a source of resilience for many deaf people who use Irish Sign Language (ISL) to adapt to and navigate Irish society. " Examine the possible development of sustainable models to ensure the continuity of resilience " Based on emerging findings, to examine how public policies can be articulated and supported to develop the vitality of the Irish deaf community as a source of resilience.
  • Funding Agency
    • REACH Deaf Services
  • Date From
    • January 2023
  • Date To
    • December 2023
  • Title
    • "Let's, let's stay together": ethnographical research into intimate relationships within the deaf community in Ireland
  • Summary
    • This proposal aims to better understand the assortative relationships within the deaf community, especially those using Irish Sign Language (ISL). This area is quite under-researched. An insight can be gained from the historical research of such relationships and their comparative correlation to today"s situation. Another insight can be gained from the question of whether assortative relationships can be a mainstay of sustaining Irish Sign Language (ISL) and providing positive mental well-being to those in assortative and non-assortative relationships.
  • Funding Agency
    • AHSSBF
  • Title
    • Sense of the Community - Deaf Community
  • Summary
    • While accepting the widespread perceived feeling of disconnectedness, the central hypothesis is to determine the level of how strong the sense of community the respondents feel. The level will be divided into geographical locations, gender, age groups, educational attainments and social classes. Despite the pessimistic feeling, the wording: "deaf community" is frequently used in many contexts, often in the public domain, especially when it comes to publicising the information gaps in the public service information. The recent coronavirus crisis is a recent example as the government had responded to calls for interpreters' constant presence at public briefings. The word "community" has positive connotations, and the fact that the word has brought in many positive changes for deaf people. Depending on the response, it may have potential further research.
  • Funding Agency
    • Trinity College Dublin
  • Date From
    • June 2020
  • Date To
    • December 2023
  • Title
    • DESIGNS: Deaf Employment for Sign Language Users in the EU
  • Summary
    • The DESIGNS project aims to bring together 7 partners from 4 EU countries who are renowned experts in the fields of Education and Training, Employment, Sign Language Interpreting and Deaf Community Advocacy. The overall aim of the project is to create VET and CPD training resources and exchange best practices across Europe to facilitate greater participation of Deaf sign language users in employment.
  • Funding Agency
    • European Commission
  • Date From
    • 2016
  • Date To
    • 2019
  • Title
    • Hidden Histories (Irish coordinator)
  • Summary
    • The University of Sussex leads this, with partners in Ireland (Centre for Deaf Studies, TCD), Austria and Finland. The project focuses on the creation of digital archives of community experiences in rural, nomadic, and Deaf communities. A key objective of this project is to increase the participation in lifelong learning of marginalised and disadvantaged groups and, as a result of this participation to increase their engagement with civic society and learning. It fosters learning opportunities based on participation in local community activities, developing alternative and innovative ways of learning, and sharing good practice on intercultural education, learning by marginalized citizens and their linguistic, social and cultural inclusion.
  • Funding Agency
    • This project is funded by the EU (Grundtvig programme).
  • Date From
    • November 2010
  • Date To
    • October 2012
  • Title
    • Poverty in the Irish Deaf Community
  • Summary
    • The research aimed to determine the level of poverty within the Deaf community. The concept of poverty was determined by the National Anti-Poverty Strategy which makes a distinction between absolute and relative poverty. A report was published. The co-author was Carmel Grehan.
  • Funding Agency
    • Combat Poverty Agency
  • Date From
    • 2000
  • Date To
    • 2002
  • Title
    • Signing In / Signing Out
  • Summary
    • As a co-ordinator of this project, this research was a follow-up to the former research on poverty. The professional researcher was employed in this regard and we cosnulted on several occasions. The report was launched by the Minister of Labour, Mr. Killen in April 2006
  • Funding Agency
    • Combat Poverty Agency and the Department of Socail & Family Affairs
  • Date From
    • 2004
  • Date To
    • 2006
  • Title
    • SIF II Deaf Studies in Ireland Programme
  • Summary
    • Working in partnership with the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown, CDS has developed and introduced a Bachelor in Deaf Studies with significant digital content. Original aims to roll out the programme in collaboration with the Tipperary Institute, the Limerick Institute of Technology and NUI Cork have had to be put on hold due to funding cuts. Despite this setback, the core aims of increasing accessibility for Deaf, hard of hearing and mature students; maximising the application of new technologies to the delivery of signed language and Deaf Studies courses; analysing the success of these ventures; and increasing collaboration across higher educational institutions with respect to the field of Deaf Studies remain. Work as the project manager
  • Funding Agency
    • Higher Education Authority
  • Date From
    • September 2008
  • Date To
    • 2011
  • Title
    • SIGNALL II
  • Summary
    • CDS is work with Interesource (Ire.) to develop a digital multi-media course on Deaf Culture and Deaf history for employers across the European Union. The project Promoter is Interesource Group (Ireland) Ltd. Project partners are from Finland, Czech Republic, Poland and the UK. www.signallproject.com. Work as a team member.
  • Funding Agency
    • European Commission
  • Date From
    • November 2007
  • Date To
    • October 2009
  • Title
    • Colloborative Online Interactive Learning workshop
  • Summary
    • Dr Conama and Teresa Lynch attended a COIL workshop at OsloMet University on 2-4 November in Oslo to develop inter-university online courses on Deaf Studies.
  • Date From
    • 2 November
  • Date To
    • 4 November
  • Title
    • Masters in Deaf Studies a feasibility study
  • Summary
    • Dr Conama attended a week-long in Denmark as a part of a feasibility study to develop a European-level master"s level in Deaf Studies in April 2023.
  • Funding Agency
    • European Commission Erasmus plus
  • Title
    • ISL TEaching Project
  • Summary
    • The agreement has agreed with the Irish Deaf Society that the following tangible deliverables are. " 1. Target Deliverables: i) Research feasible pathway options for the course ii) Clarify and interlink each option if possible - iii) Cost and time of each option iv) Check the pros and cons of each option Outcome: Decision on options and develop it further in Spring 2023. If IDS and SOLAS are happy with the progress in April, the job may continue for a few more months, and we target September 2023 as the starting date for the new once-off course.
  • Funding Agency
    • Irish Deaf Society

Keywords

Education and minority language; Equality law; Globalisation; Health policy; Identity politics and social change; Irish economy, problems; Irish politics, election study, electoral behaviour; Politics of the welfare state; Public Policy; Social work with minorities

Recognition

Representations

Chair the Cross-Community Group under the aegis of Irish Deaf Society to monitor the implementation of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017 2018 - present

Member of Disability Advisory Committee under the aegis of Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/new-disability-advisory-committee-appoints-four-trinity-alumni-staff/ 2019 - 2024

A collaborative project over the next 12 months between UCC, Cork Deaf Association and Kerry Deaf Resource Centre, which will focus on designing a Deaf Awareness auditing template for use by public bodies. Hopefully this project can support the work underway around the country towards supporting effective implementation of the ISL Act 2017. This project is supported by Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission's Grant Scheme 2018 2018-2021

Invited to attend the working group meeting on the Implementation of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017 within the Houses of the Oireachtas Service. 5th November

World Federation of the Deaf's Expert Group on Sign Language and Deaf Studies 2016-2019

The working group we are putting together to address the relocation of St Josephs House for vulnerable Deaf adults 2017 - present

An external consultant to Working Group on Sign Language for the Public Council of the Commission on Interaction between Citizens and the Parliament of the Republic of Bulgaria. 2018

Co-chair the Irish Sign Language Recognition Campaign which culminated in the enactment of Irish Sign Language Act 2017 and it was signed into law by President Higgins on 24th December 2017. 2011 to 2018

Committee member on Irish Sign Language Academy - a representative body of ISL teachers and researchers under the aegis of Irish Deaf Society. Responsibility in the ISL recognition. 2005 to 2012

Board member of the Sign Language Interpreting Service (SLIS). SLIS is the interpreting agency that is supported with funds by the statutory agency: Citizens Information Board (CIB) 2007 - 2009

Acting Chairperson of the Model School for the Deaf Project 2000 - 2007

Member of the Partnership Group on Deaf Education (CIDP-IDS-DeafHear-Schools for the Deaf-CDS) 2009 - 2017

Member of advisory group to Association of Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) with a responsibility of organising a conference and a written response to the issue of Deaf applicants for primary teaching training 2012

Invited to participate in the roundtable discussion on Irish Sign Language recognition hosted by the National Disability Authority May 3, 2012

Minute Checker for the World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf 21-22 July

Member of the Working Group on the Register of Irish Sign Language Interpreters under Sign Language Interpreting Service.

Member of the Steering group under Citizen Information Bureau being set up to oversee and advise on projects relating to the Register for Interpreters and an App and platform for remote interpreting.

Sits on the advisory committee under the aegis of the National Disability Authority to prepare a review report on ISL Act (2017)for the Minister for Disabilities January to July

Awards and Honours

European Language Label - Language Ambassador September 2015

Media Award by Hidden Hearing - Media Award - Award for a campaigner / journalist / celebrity who has highlighted topics related to those who are Deaf or hard of hearing. September 2011

Doctoral scholarship from National Disability Authority 2002-07

Dr Ciaran Barry Scholarship for Masters research 1997

Supporter of the Year by Kerry Deaf Rsources Centre December 17, 2010

Masters in Arts (jure offici) 23 June 2017

Memberships

Member of ISL Academy 2006 – 2020

Irish Deaf Society Member, Board director, secretary, chairperson 1986 – current

World Federation of the Deaf 2008 – current

Member of the first Think Tank on Deaf Studies at the University of Utrecht. A number of universities in Europe and North America are involved. 2020 – present