Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 105: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the further report from the NCCA on changes to the structure and content of the leaving certificate examination; if she has given consideration to any of the proposals contained therein; if it is intended to publish the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13018/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The second advice from the NCCA on proposals to reform of senior cycle education was sent to me on 19 April 2005. Clearly, we are all concerned that our education system should be positioned so that it continues to maintain excellence, relevance, quality and inclusiveness in the changing climate which lies ahead.

The proposals are ambitious and far reaching and I have already expressed some concerns about the logistics, feasibility, cost and complexity of some aspects. I am having the NCCA's advice examined fully within my Department and will engage in further discussions with the council and with stakeholders on the proposals and priorities for the future, with a view to making a decision as soon as possible.

It is crucial that reforms will promote cohesion and equity in our society and enable students to develop their talents, prepare them for adult life, for lifelong learning and employment in the knowledge society. The system must continue to play its part in promoting Ireland's competitiveness and growth. We must also ensure that public confidence in the integrity, objectivity and quality of senior cycle education is maintained, that change is well managed and resourced and that change is managed at a pace the system can absorb.

These are major considerations of fundamental importance to our future and our children's future. It is vital that the implications of the proposals be examined thoroughly and that changes adopted are effective in supporting strategic change which promotes increased relevance, quality and equity in the system. I do not intend to publish the NCCA's advice. However, a copy is accessible on the NCCA's website at www.ncca.ie.