Teacher union representatives to attend Oireachtas briefing on dyslexia rights – Lombard

Representatives of teacher unions, parents and advocates will discuss dyslexia rights and supports at a briefing tomorrow, which has been organised by Fine Gael Senator Tim Lombard.

Senator Lombard said: “October is Dyslexia Awareness Month and is always an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about dyslexia. The focus this year is on dyslexic rights. This includes the right to an assessment, the right to identify as dyslexic, and the right to supports.

“Often it can be difficult to access an assessment, which has a negative impact on the confidence and self-esteem of the child or adult waiting to be assessed. The benefits of having access to an assessment are immense.

“The realisation for that child or adult that they are dyslexic and they just need to learn in a different way to others can be life changing for them and enable better understanding for their families, their teachers, and their work colleagues.

“Early identification and supports can make a huge difference and that is why I continue to work with the Dyslexia Association of Ireland (DAI) to look for improvements in areas like mandatory training for teachers and an improved scheme of reasonable accommodations in State Examinations”, said Senator Lombard.

“I’m delighted to invite representatives from the DAI to Leinster House to join me in giving a presentation to my Oireachtas colleagues on Wednesday and am very pleased that we will also be joined by representatives from teacher unions, parents and advocates, who will give their own insights”, Senator Lombard concluded.