Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I ask for a debate at another time on reform of the leaving certificate curriculum. I refer to a very interesting article in today's newspaper. We must question whether the curriculum is suitable for the educational needs of today and I do not believe it is. We do not know how to change the leaving certificate. We should use this Chamber to discuss the future, IDA's Horizon 2020, strategies and entrepreneurial skills. The new breed of graduates are not able to cope with the transition from leaving certificate to third level education because they are not properly prepared. This is not the fault of teachers. We have become comfortable with the leaving certificate and it has stood the test of time but I question whether it is suitable for Irish society and the types of jobs required in the future. I suggest the House plans for an ongoing discussion on this issue because it will not be settled overnight by means of one debate.