Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I believe in this scheme. I believe fundamentally that we must do all we can to ensure students get the opportunity at whatever level to showcase themselves at their best.

Specifically, in terms of dyslexia, the State Examinations Commission has met with the national organisation. Everything is kept under review. They would point to the fact that, almost uniquely in the world, there is the spelling and grammar waiver, which is not in existence in other jurisdictions to the best of my knowledge. However, they have listened to and are hearing what is being said by the dyslexia association from a national point of view and they will keep it under review.

It is important we would point to the accommodations that are currently in existence. If there is scope to do more going forward, there is scope to do more. It also includes the individual reader, the reading assistant, the word processor, a waiver from spelling and grammar, etc. Additional time for any candidate who is using a scribe is also provided for the time overhead in dictating answers. This is at a rate of ten minutes per scheduled hour or part thereof. That is not applicable, however, at leaving certificate level, particularly in English and Irish, given that there was a 20-minute addition of time given across the board in those subject areas.

I am conscious of the importance of this scheme. We are aware of how it has opened up so many opportunities for young people. The State Examinations Commission has informed me it is keeping it under consistent review. It has shown that with its willingness to meet with organisations. The commission meets regularly with organisations which feel they have additional points to make. In this instance, the commission will keep it under review, specifically in relation to dyslexia, as the Deputy has referenced.

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