Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Unfortunately it is a bit of a chicken and egg situation, similar to how one might attract nurses into a healthcare system that is on the point of collapse. Their experience of it is bad. More nurses are needed to improve it and, somewhat like that, we have a circular situation here as far as I can see.

While it is welcome that we have a date now for the junior cycle results, the delay is unfortunate. Stress and anxiety are involved for all students. There are material considerations for two categories of student that occur to me - those who are starting fifth year and are trying to make decisions about what subjects to take and what level they will study them at; and those who are leaving school to do apprenticeships. Will Ms Feeney comment on the latter case, including whether the SEC has direct engagement with students in that situation about how their qualifications are being credited? I appreciate the SEC cannot do the miracle of the loaves and fishes and only so many people are available. It is unfortunate. Clearly we need to make this more attractive as it is obviously not attractive enough. Ms Feeney mentioned increased rates of pay. Has the SEC directly engaged with the two teachers' unions to examine whether any additional measures could be considered? For example, will the public pay deal have an impact on it if that is approved?

Are there other things such as additional leave or other incentives? I have a further question but will Ms Feeney respond to that much first?