Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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297. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider implementing a review of the leaving certificate agricultural science syllabus, in view of the fact that 7,414 students sat the exam based on the syllabus in 2013, of which many aspects are in need of an update; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that demand for third-level agri-food courses increased at the Central Applications Office by 10% in 2013, representing the steepest rise in demand for courses; if he will consider implementing teacher guidelines for the subject; if he will refer the matter to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment; when he expects to receive the review; when the new syllabus will be first examined by students in second level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37360/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The NCCA is scheduled to begin a review of agricultural science in the last quarter of this year. The first step is the publication of a background paper for consultation which is likely to be in early 2014. When I receive the NCCA's advice on this matter, in due course, I will consider a timetable for implementation.