Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I listened to a very interesting debate on radio yesterday about the State Examinations Commission, SEC, and how it is dealing with dyslexic children and adults, in particular those going through State exams. This is about having additional time for exams. In most jurisdictions, if people are dyslexic, they get additional time to do the State exams, whether the equivalent of the junior certificate or leaving certificate. Unfortunately, the SEC has ruled against that idea. Some 10% of the population and, therefore, 10% of the student population, is dyslexic. The majority of these need extra time in the exams to help with the reading and decoding of the paper so they can reach their full potential.

I am shocked that the SEC has taken this bizarre road and has now decided it is going to try to exclude these people from having the capability to reach their full potential. The real issue is that when they get to third level, they will get the additional time to do their exams. It is completely bizarre. What needs to happen is that the Minister for Education needs to intervene. There is no logical argument. Internationally, and in the third level education institutions here currently, extra time is given for the 10% of the population who are dyslexic. It is bizarre that the commission can stand over this. The Minister needs to come to the Chamber to have a significant debate about what her plans are to ensure dyslexic kids have the right and fair opportunity when it comes to sitting these exams. It is stressful enough for these kids on a good day, without adding this extra pressure. Something needs to be done to support them.