Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

The leaving certificate details what was examined and the marks awarded. In most cases, it would simply list the grades in certain subjects, the assumption being that all elements were examined. The annotation merely states that an element of one or more examinations was not taken into account. It is a statement of fact. It is there because so many people have been accommodated to ensure that they get every opportunity to participate fully within the examination system. Annotations have been, and are, used in other countries. They are being used in the United States, which is the only country where a ruling has been made to say that it is not illegal to do so. England, Wales and Northern Ireland have also provided for exemptions and certificate annotations, but those authorities were told that they could not go ahead under the terms of the disability discrimination legislation. Those areas then decided to drop the exemptions completely, although there now seems to be some confusion and rowing back on the issue. It is therefore a matter for other countries as well. I am anxious to ensure that young people with learning disabilities will be able to participate. To this end, we must give them as much accommodation as possible. I have read out the type of work that is made available for them.

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