Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 January 2022
299. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will ensure that all third-level libraries are equipped with devices (details supplied) that read text aloud to assist those with dyslexia or those with sight loss; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4025/22]
View answerThe principal funding source for students with disabilities including dyslexia or those with sight loss in further and higher education is the Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD). The purpose of the Fund is to provide funding to higher and further education institutions to assist them in offering supports and services to eligible students with disabilities so that they can participate on an equal basis with their peers.
The FSD supports HEIs in providing supports to students with disabilities, including assistive technology i.e. “any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customised/custom-built, that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities”. C Pen readers would be an example of this type of technology available through the FSD. As part of a student’s needs assessment, students can consult with the disability support service in their HEI in relation to the availability and suitability of such supports.
