Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As I have said there is a review ongoing that is being undertaken by the SEC. This was at my request. I acknowledge the huge co-operation. A premium rate has been paid to examiners and there has been additional support provided to schools in days being made available to them to support their work at that time. I acknowledge what the Deputy said that there are mixed views on the timing of it. The SEC has done an interim review and has agreed to do a more comprehensive review, which is under way at present. When that is completed, we will review the information that has been gathered. I have no doubt the SEC will revert with its findings following that review.

By arranging the exams in the first week of the Easter holidays, it does provide that examiners, candidates and school staff have a consecutive ten-day break from school after the examinations have been completed. It is important to say that, in line with traditional arrangements, candidates who miss their oral examination due to illness or close family bereavement will be facilitated with a later examination the week commencing 18 May. There is an ongoing flexibility there.

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