Ms Rosie Bissett:

The current RACE scheme is a needs-based system. It does not require a diagnosis for any other accommodation. There is no need for a diagnosis for extra time either. It can be done in the same way – evidence of need with tests of reading speed, writing speed and processing speed. The issue of unfair advantage, which Senator Tully also mentioned, which comes from the SEC a lot, this fear of giving advantage to others, is simply not true. Recent research published from University College London and a report by the British Dyslexia Association earlier this year have showed that in the UK, where they have extra time as common plus a suite of other accommodations, the results of young people with dyslexia and other special educational needs are still below those of their peers, even with that extra time. Extra time helps to get us closer to a level playing field but as Deputy Cummins said, it is still really hard for them. This whole thing of the timed exam, the recall, the speed issue will still be harder for them than their non-dyslexic peers but at least we can make it better for them. When Ms O’Brien goes into her leaving certificate exams, if we get this right, she and countless other students will have a better opportunity to get their knowledge and ability down.