Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

To clarify, following on from the reports initiated by me and by FÁS as regards the issues that arose in the north east, a number of recommendations were made. One of them was to the effect that we would have to change the way in which we inputted the results. That new system commenced in September this year and is known as the new training standards system.

Another issue that arose was as regards the marking which was very complex and unclear. People either passed or failed unlike, say, in the junior or leaving certificate where there are grades as regards whether a student passes or fails. All of that work is being rolled out since September.

FETAC instigated its inquiry on the basis of the inputting, processing and administration. I am referring to the inputting of the results in order to draw down the certification. We all agree that the integrity of further education is enormously important and that is why FETAC has taken the decision to go to the 17 centres.

However, there are two different issues. This issue has arisen following an examination by FÁS. The other issue in the north east arose from a report arising from an investigation that was carried out. Unfortunately, those matters have not, as yet, been resolved. I have asked that they be resolved as a matter of urgency for the sake of the people concerned.

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