Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. I spoke with the Minister for Education, Deputy Foley, this morning, and she confirms that fees for both the leaving and junior certificate exams are being waived for this year. As the Deputy knows, some families are exempt from payment, but for those which are not exempt, this will be a saving of €116 in the case of the leaving certificate and €109 for the junior cycle exams. It is a small act but perhaps it will help some families with the high cost of living. It is some recognition of the fact that children and families are being put under so much pressure as a result of the pandemic. That was confirmed by the Minister, Deputy Foley, this morning. Those logging on to the State Examinations Commission website today will see the information is already there.

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