Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)
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312. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she has reviewed, or requested a review, of SEC rules in relation to the use of readers in State examinations; if she is satisfied at the adequacy of supports for students with dyslexia who require questions to be read aloud and synonyms of words provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29321/24]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The State Examinations Commission (SEC) has responsibility for the operation, delivery and development of the State examinations. As part of its remit, the SEC provides Reasonable Accommodations at the Certificate Examinations (the RACE Scheme) to support students with a complex variety of special educational needs.

A central tenet of the RACE Scheme is to ensure equitable treatment for all candidates. The SEC advises that the range of accommodations provided under the scheme has been designed to ensure fairness for all when facilitating candidates in demonstrating their level of achievement.

In the context of Senior Cycle Redevelopment, the SEC has commenced work on a comprehensive system wide review of the RACE Scheme. The review will consider all relevant issues and take account of best practice internationally. I am advised there will be extensive consultation and engagement with as broad a range of stakeholders as possible including young people with special educational needs, their families, and representative organisations including the Dyslexia Association of Ireland.

I have asked the SEC to respond directly to the Deputy in regard to the detail of supports for students with dyslexia.