Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I thank the Deputy once again for providing me with an opportunity to address the many concerns that have been expressed about the content of the Project Maths programme and the way in which it is being taught at present. Project Maths is designed to transform teaching and learning in maths at both junior and senior cycle. It should enable students to develop an understanding of the hows and whys of maths but also the ability to apply their knowledge and skills in familiar and unfamiliar contexts. I recognise this is a considerable shift from the previous position. The new format should also provide students with analytical and creative powers in maths.

As I outlined earlier, there are many positive initiatives in place which aim to encourage more students to have the confidence, understanding and skills to pursue their studies in maths to higher level in the leaving certificate. That was the primary motivation for providing the extra 25 points if a student takes the higher level and does not, on the day of the exam, opt to take the lower level. This was as much as it was trying to do, no more, no less. It is not a solution on its own; it is part of an overall approach to maths. The other approaches include the introduction of the new Project Maths syllabi at both junior and senior cycle and, as I said, the provision of the 25 bonus points by higher education institutions for higher level maths students who succeed in achieving a D3 grade or above. The increase of 25% in the number of entrants for higher level maths in the leaving certificate this year is, I believe, very encouraging, and I hope these entrants have already sat the higher level maths examination.

Some concern has been highlighted in regard to this year's leaving certificate papers, which is normal. As I said, the chief examiner and the college of examiners in the State Examinations Commission look at these matters. The Government is fully aware of the importance of maths and other STEM subjects. We will continue to ensure the initiatives I have outlined are prioritised in order that a quality maths education is available for young people both at junior and senior cycle.

I am aware of the Deputy's professional background in this area and her genuine concern and motivation in raising this matter. With many others, I share the concerns about the quality of teaching in both literacy and numeracy at primary and secondary level up to higher level maths, and in regard to providing graduates from our secondary school system and third level colleges with a range of skills for which there is a market shortage throughout the world. While I am committed to delivering change and improvement, the implementation requires a lot of time and co-operation. I will be more than happy to discuss with the Deputy and other Oireachtas colleagues how best we can achieve this.

Nobody has a monopoly on wisdom in this regard, and I do not claim that I do. However, it is obvious from what has been said in recent years when I was in opposition that we had to address the mathematics issue. Project Maths was an attempt to start to do this. We are not complete in terms of the way it will be implemented and will continue to improve it. I am also aware of the issues concerning the provision of suitable textbooks.

See this speech in context