Liz McManus
Ceist:182 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the provisions being made to accommodate children and adults with special needs sitting their State examinations. [19063/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 29 June 2004
Ceisteanna (184)
Freagraí scríofa
I formally established the State Examinations Commission on 6 March 2003. It is statutorily responsible for all operational matters for the certificate examinations. The commission operates a scheme of reasonable accommodations for candidates with special needs at the examinations. The range of accommodations available to candidates includes the use of readers, scribes, tape recorders and the use of computer technology in certain cases. The students may also apply to have a part of an examination waived and to be marked out of 100% on the balance. The school authority, on behalf of its candidates, applies for accommodations. Each case is considered on its merits. School authorities may also approve rest periods, taking of medicine into the examination hall and the use of low vision aids without recourse to the commission. I am satisfied that there are appropriate arrangements to accommodate students with special needs sitting the examinations.