Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I apologise to Deputy Tully for not getting that reply previously. I appreciate having the opportunity to respond on the issue now. On the leaving certificate arrangements for 2022, cognisant of many of the issues that have arisen previously for these students, significant accommodation has already been made in the examination papers. Schools were notified of the accommodation at the start of this term in August and September so that staff and students would be familiar with the layout of the papers and the accommodation that is being made for them. Equally, we have provided for a second running of the leaving certificate examination this year. That will be held as close as possible to the first and standard running of the leaving certificate.

I acknowledge the work of the advisory group on this issue. The advisory group consists of the Department of Education, the parents' representatives, the student voice - importantly, the teaching unions and the managerial bodies. They have done a considerable body of work in this regard. We have made an accommodation in the paper and we are providing for a second running of the leaving certificate in 2022. Obviously, we keep everything under review as the year moves forward. Schools have been advised of the accommodation.