Although most would agree on the usefulness of translation and community interpretation, little attention has been paid this far to the possible negative impact of these activities, both on those who provide and those who benefit form translation and interpretation services. In this paper, the author initiates a reflection on some of the effects - be they negative or positive - of community interpretation by taking as starting point two decision by Canadian tribunals and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In conclusion, the author supports the need for community interpretation while calling for a restructuring of the profession.