Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 457: To ask the Minister for Defence the provision there is for dyslexia support for candidates sitting tests for entrance to the Defence Forces such as a reader; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30773/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Defence Forces are committed to the principles of equal opportunity, in all employment policies, procedures and regulations. The Defence Forces operate in an environment which is free from discrimination as provided for by the Equality Acts. However, the Defence Forces have a derogation from the provisions of the Employment Equality Acts, 1998 to 2011 in respect of criteria of disability and age. Accordingly, recruitment criteria based on physiological and age requirements are permitted by legislation. Similar derogations apply to the Garda Siochána and the Prison Service.

Psychometric Testing is carried out as part of the recruitment process for appointment as a Cadet and enlistment as a General Service Recruit in the Defence Forces. Testing is conducted by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) on behalf of the Defence Forces. The PAS makes provision for candidates with dyslexia or other learning difficulties. Such candidates are given additional time (one sixth of stipulated time) to answer questions. Prior to presenting for tests, candidates wishing to avail of this provision are required to contact the PAS and forward supporting documentation in the form of medical and psychological reports. However, there is no provision made for a reader during these tests as the current age, medical and physical requirements for entry into the Permanent Defence Force reflect the fact that only recruits who are free from disability, including the ability to read unassisted, can satisfy the difficult demands of the training and operational environment in which all recruits must operate.