Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Not for one minute do I underestimate the importance of the results coming out as early as possible. I acknowledge the work of the SEC, which stands over the integrity of the exams. The Deputy referenced the issue of examiners, but the SEC has additional responsibilities in terms of the provision of a deferred exam sitting. That deferral is right and proper. Everyone would agree that if, for an unfortunate reason, a student was not in a position to take the exams the first time around, he or she should have a second opportunity as long as particular criteria are met. Equally, a commitment was given that there would be no cliff edge, as it were, in terms of what was achieved for students during Covid. The post-marking element is another issue for the SEC.

The SEC is working through applications. I am confident it will be in a position to make an announcement about the date before the 2023 leaving certificate, and I have made it clear that that should happen in the coming weeks. The oral exams and practicals are a positive indication that there was a sufficiency of examiners this year.

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