Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is very welcome to the House this evening to discuss this important issue. I will begin by complimenting her on the work she has done since taking over responsibility for special needs and on her contribution to special needs schools and to children with disabilities and learning difficulties, including those with dyslexia. As has been pointed out earlier, dyslexia is not just about children; it also affects adults. I am glad to have the opportunity to speak this evening, especially as this week is Dyslexia Awareness Week. Many of us in the House attended the Dyslexia Association of Ireland's briefing where we heard some pretty stark facts. While there was much positivity in the briefing, there were also some alarming issues raised. Some teachers admitted that they felt they were not properly trained to deal with dyslexia. Many teachers have been on training courses but feel they do not have the skills to deal with dyslexic children or to teach them properly. It should be compulsory for all teachers to complete a dyslexia training course.

I also wish to compliment the SNAs in our schools. There are many fantastic SNAs out there who have worked so diligently with students, especially those who are completing the leaving certificate. I know of a student who is severely dyslexic, who reads everything backwards and finds it really difficult to learn. That student got close to 500 points in the leaving certificate, thanks to the help of a hard-working SNA. It is also important to mention technology in this debate. Supportive technology enables many people who are dyslexic to learn a lot faster. Dyslexic students can use iPads and similar devices at school and many of them find that very useful. I know of one child who writes everything backwards but who is the first to understand a verbal instruction. The child is very intelligent, as is the case with many people with dyslexia. It is all about finding the right supports for children, especially in education. In many instances, people lack confidence because they feel they are doing things wrong but it is not about right or wrong but putting the right supports in place. I would like to see grants being given for assistive technology because it can be very costly for families. I met the parents of three children with dyslexia recently who told me that the cost of getting a computer for each child was enormous, not to mention the cost of upgrading and so on.

While much good work is happening out there, we need to go a step further. I compliment the Minister of State on her commitment to this area and look forward to working with her on improving the rights of people with dyslexia.