Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy and join him in acknowledging the great innovative and creative work that is going on through distance learning. Obviously, it is not sustainable in the long run.

The Deputy referred to how third level institutions have responded to this crisis. It has been incredible to watch the processes to continue learning remotely and to do examinations remotely as well. Within that there are gaps relating to technological inequity as well.

The Deputy is correct that many students rely on hospitality and summer jobs. Those jobs will not be available this summer. Interestingly, however, there has been much debate in the House in recent years about how the money students generated was used against them when they were trying to apply for grants. I acknowledge the Deputy is referring to the entire cohort. There is a fear around the SUSI grant in that it was determined on 2019 income by parents. The circumstances have changed and that will have to be taken into consideration.

I take the Deputy's concerns about the grading calculation system on board as well. From tomorrow the guidelines will be available and teachers will have a roadmap for the processes. Hopefully, that will help. I will ensure that, at the heart of all of the deliberations of the new executive office that has been set up, the principles of fairness and equity will remain central to all deliberations.

The Deputy asked questions regarding another language and leaving certificate grades outside of school and tutors. We are going to look at those on a case-by-case basis and this will be determined by the information provided by the student in terms of learning support.

Maidir leis na coláistí samhraidh, tá an ceart ag an Teachta maidir leis an Aire atá freagrach as an gcinneadh sin, mo chomhghleacaí an tAire Stáit, Teachta Kyne. Bhí mé i dteagmháil leis agus tá a fhios agam go mbeidh drochthionchar agus aontaím agus táim cinnte de fosta, i mo cheantar Gaeltachta féin i nDún na nGall, go mbeidh an áit fholamh agus an bhearna maidir leis an airgead nach mbeidh ann. Maidir leis an gceist dheireanach, b'fhéidir go mbeidh freagra ar fáil uirthi ó mo chuid oifigeach.

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