Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On the issue of music, as I have articulated, we have made clear that music practical exams will continue but we are mindful that music has particular requirements and differing approaches are taken to the exam. It could be an individual exam or a group or an ensemble exam, or whatever it might be, so specific public health advice is required. We have previously taken public health advice and we need it subject-specific to the different mechanisms within music. That is progressing as expeditiously as possible and the decision will be available as a matter of priority.

On mock exams, I again confirm that our guidelines clearly state they are neither recommended nor advised. They are not part of the curriculum, and while schools have the freedom to run mock exams or not, we have made clear that the priority for schools should be in-person tuition and that mock exams are not recommended nor advised.

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