Equal access to dyslexia supports and awareness essential for children and adults – Lombard

Equal access to dyslexia supports and early diagnosis is essential in helping children and adults affected by the condition, according to Fine Gael Senator Tim Lombard.

Senator Lombard is hosting a presentation to raise awareness of access to services and supports for those with dyslexia tomorrow (Wednesday, 5^th October) in Leinster House.

Senator Lombard, a long-time campaigner and advocate for members of the dyslexic community, said:  “October is Dyslexia Awareness month and I can think of no better time to hear from advocates and education representatives to discuss how we can better support children and adults with dyslexia and issues such as early identification and service pathways.

“I’m delighted to invite representatives from the Dyslexia Association of Ireland (DAI) to Leinster House, to join me in giving a presentation to my Oireachtas colleagues tomorrow. We had to move the event to an online format during Covid, so it’s exciting to be hosting the event in person again for 2022.

‘Dyslexia is a learning difference which makes learning to read, write and spell more challenging and it affects at least one in 10 people.

“Early identification and supports can make a huge difference and that is why I continue to work with the Dyslexia Association of Ireland to look for improvements in areas like teacher training, access to assistive technology and access to assessments.

“As well as members of DAI, we will be joined by a parent, representatives from the teaching unions and I look forward to their engagement on these topics.”

Senator Lombard notes that the focus of this years Dyslexia Awareness month from the Dyslexia Association of Ireland is ‘Trust Your Instincts’,“I believe this is a really important and positive message to send to parents, teachers and individuals themselves who may feel that something isn’t quite right.

“I would encourage anyone who suspects that their child, a child in their class or they themselves may have dyslexia to trust your instincts and reach out. Talk to the teacher, the school, other parents and get in contact with the Dyslexia Association of Ireland who offer excellent support and advice.”