Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, I welcome the Ballyheane Women’s Group from Castlebar, who are joining us today in Leinster House and who are in the Gallery.

I raise a similar topic, which is that the leaving certificate examinations are approaching and the dates of when students will receive their results remain uncertain. The absence of a definite release date for leaving certificate results is causing significant anxiety among young students. I have been contacted by several students. Approximately 500 Irish students apply to higher education institutions in the Netherlands and are seeking information on this matter. Unfortunately, for the fourth successive year, the State Examinations Commission has indicated that results may not be available in the traditional mid-August timeframe, impacting the incoming first-year students who will once again be delayed in starting their college courses. While I am aware that the State Examinations Commission is responsible for the operation, delivery and development of State examinations, it is beyond reason why the State Examinations Commission is not in a position to confirm the date for those results. The lack of a specific date heightens uncertainty and anxiety among students. I kindly request clarification on this matter, which is causing enormous issues among students who are diligently preparing for their State exams.

See this speech in context