Ballymoney man to teach sign language in Falklands

BALLYMONEY man, James McVicker, an accomplished British Sign Language interpreter, is visiting the Falklands Islands to assist young Falklands resident, Thomas, who is the only deaf child on the islands.

Mr McVicker will assist Thomas by teaching sign language to his classmates and the wider community so as to better facilitate Thomas’ educational and social advancement.

Mr McVicker, who is set to meet the Governor of the Falklands, is carrying with him a letter of greetings from the North Antrim MP, Jim Allister.

In his letter commending James McVicker, Mr Allister speaks of Northern Ireland feeling great affinity with the Falklands “given that in both our cases our Britishness has been subject to severe attack - in your case through a full case invasion and in ours through a vicious and sustained terrorist campaign. In consequence there is considerable fellow feeling among my constituents towards your citizens”. 

Commenting Jim Allister said, “This is a wonderful venture by James, whom I have known for some years as a most dedicated worker and volunteer with the deaf community. To see him bringing comfort and help to a young boy on the other side of the world typifies his dedication and commitment.”