Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
508. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether students with dyslexia will be eligible for extra time in the Leaving Certificate examinations from 2026; when the eligibility criteria and application process will be formally published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5933/26]
View answerThe State Examinations Commission (SEC) has responsibility for the operation and delivery of the State examinations, and facilitates access to the examinations through its scheme of reasonable accommodations at the certificate examinations, otherwise known as the RACE scheme. I welcome that the SEC has today issued a circular to schools setting out the details of an interim scheme of additional time for students with specific needs sitting State examinations in 2026.
I am advised that approximately 30,000 candidates across the Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle examinations who currently receive a direct intervention accommodation through the RACE scheme will be granted 10 minutes of additional time in each written examination paper in 2026.
The interim scheme delivers on a key Programme for Government commitment to develop an appropriate mechanism allowing additional time for students with specific needs and in certain circumstances. The SEC intends to develop these arrangements from 2027 onwards, drawing on the findings of research commissioned as part of the RACE review, the learning that emerges from the 2026 experience, and continued engagement with stakeholders.
I understand that the SEC have already responded directly to you, and that they will issue an updated response following today’s announcement.
