Campaign for dyslexic students to be given extra exam time gains momentum
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The call to urgently introduce extra exam time for dyslexic students, whose difficulties are exacerbated under time pressure, has drawn cross-party support.
TDs and senators from across the political spectrum have added their names to a public pledge supporting the introduction of extra time in Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert exams for dyslexic students.
With Tuesday marking World Dyslexia Day, the Dyslexia Association of Ireland is calling on the State Examinations Commission to bring forward the timescale of its review of reasonable accommodations.
The lack of extra time in exams is hugely impacting young people in Ireland with dyslexia, dyscalculia and other learning difficulties, according to the organisation.
“This places them at a distinct disadvantage and can prevent them from reaching their potential.”
Despite having a recognised learning difficulty, these young people are not given extra time in Junior and Leaving Certificate exams in Ireland. This is unlike most countries internationally, which provide this as standard.
Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North Central Padraig O’Sullivan said: “I have raised the need for students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties to be given extended time for exams and assignments at second level. I hope that the State Examinations Commission will conduct this review as expeditiously as possible.”
Labour leader Ivana Bacik said: “We in Labour are glad to support necessary additional supports for students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.”
Sinn Féin education spokeswoman Sorca Clarke said: “The review needs to be prioritised by government and it needs to include additional time for students with learning difficulties. Sinn Féin is committed to creating equal opportunities for students with learning difficulties.”
Leader of the Social Democrats and TD for Cork South West Holly Cairns said: “This is indeed a significant barrier for many students, and introducing extra time as a reasonable accommodation would be a crucial tool to ensuring that they can fully demonstrate their abilities.”