Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Anxiety is rising all over north Kildare on account of the leaving certificate. I am being contacted by parents from Celbridge, Maynooth, Leixlip and all the way down to Naas who are worried about their children because of the patchiness of the past two school years with so many of their excellent teachers out sick or isolating because they were close contacts. Students have been affected in the same way. They have had a disruptive two years and are now facing into more uncertainty around the exams.

The students who have contacted me are an absolute credit to their parents, families and schools. Not only are they so articulate about the academic and points issues they are facing, but they have also shown an incredible maturity as well as insight into themselves in their concern for one another and their mental well-being. When it comes to the leaving certificate, they want and need choice. This has not been life and study as usual, so when it comes to exams, there can be no business as usual this year. They are worried about doing their mocks and not having the course work covered. They are worried about the gaps in teaching and learning, about their points, about their health and about their futures.

At the stroke of a pen, the Minister could remove that worry and give the students and their families not just the peace they want and need, but the choice they want and need, namely, the choice of calculated grades and exams. That should not be done at the last minute, but right now so that the students can take a breath, steady their nerves and plan ahead. They have been isolated by infection and quarantine. Now, the Government should be insulating them against future anxiety and future shock. Choice is not rocket science; it is common sense.

Our young people have been putting their lives on hold for their families and communities for the past two years. They have gone above and beyond. It is now up to us to show our appreciation by giving them back their head space and giving them choice. The Department must listen to the students. They are telling the Minister what they need and want. After the past couple of years, this is the least they deserve.

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