Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

Everyone will welcome the proposal of the Minister for Education an Science to revise the leaving certificate in a simple way. This will involve addressing the problems that have arisen over the years, including the 20% drop-out rate at leaving certificate stage and the further 20% of pupils who do not do well in the final examination. In her proposals to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, which originally made far-reaching proposals, the Minister has adopted a sensible approach in suggesting a two-stage examination rather than the single terminal examination, which causes stress to students.

At the same time we must remember that her predecessor, Deputy Noel Dempsey, decide to make the 180-day school year sacrosanct. Teachers and pupils had to be in school for that period. Now, the current Minister is proposing a second stage examination during the school year. How can this be incorporated if the rule on 180 days is sacrosanct? I hope the Leader can request a debate on education early in the next academic year, at the start of the new session, particularly on the new proposals for the leaving certificate.

I welcome the Minister's clear indication that she will not tinker with the transition year, and that it will be retained as a stand-alone year, in which students can assess the direction in which they may go. I ask for an early debate on the proposals for the leaving certificate, which will be welcomed by all, and will contribute to retaining the high standing of the leaving certificate.