Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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16. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department has any plans to incentivise the number of students taking physics, chemistry and applied mathematics at leaving certificate higher level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23385/14]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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The NCCA has recently provided me with new specifications for Leaving Certificate Physics, Chemistry and Biology. However the NCCA will trial the specifications, particularly in the context of the proposed new practical examination. It is expected that these science specifications will not only attract more higher level students but, for Physics, it is hoped that it will also attract more girls and more students to study Physics at Ordinary level.

The NCCA has commenced its consideration of Applied Mathematics. It is intended to issue a background paper for consultation in the autumn. The findings of the consultation process will inform the way forward for Applied Mathematics. Currently few Leaving Certificate candidates opt to study Applied Mathematics.

The STEM sector needs second level students with a scientific and mathematics background - both for those young people who intend to enter Higher Education and study in this area and also for those who intend to follow NFQ level 6 and 7 programmes.