Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As the number of people getting infected with Covid escalates, we see the chaos around third level examinations and assessments unfolding. Mass examination halls at normal capacity are being used to host the end-of-semester exams. Many students and staff have legitimate health and safety concerns for themselves and vulnerable family members. Others are Covid-positive or are close contacts and have their movements restricted or have to self-isolate. Deferring exams and assessment is a deplorable option. Aside from the anxiety and stress caused by deferring exams, the financial implications in terms of additional costs and loss of income are grossly unfair. We have been calling for alternative arrangements to be put in place since early November. Can the Tánaiste give me a clear reason most assessments and exams cannot be done online to enable students to comply with public health guidance and ensure they can have a family Christmas too?

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