January 25, 2022
Leaving Cert students need clarity now – Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire TD, has called on the Minister for Education to put students at the centre of the debate on this year’s Leaving Cert, and to take decisive and urgent action to bring clarity to the Class of 2022.

Teachta Ó Laoghaire is bringing a motion before the Dáil this evening that seeks to secure a choice for this year’s Leaving Cert students between calculated grades and written examinations.

The Cork South Central TD said

“The Leaving Certificate is an important milestone in the lives of our young people. In a ‘normal’ year, it is a culmination of two years of teaching and study, and recognises the end of fourteen years of primary and secondary education.

“The last two years have been anything but normal for the Leaving Cert Class of 2022. Students have faced enormous disruption, with the closure of school buildings last year and students and teachers having to self-isolate; many more than once.

“The reality is that high levels of absence among students and teachers, through no fault of their own, has had a significant impact on their ability to prepare for their Leaving Cert exams. There are many students who simply have not had the opportunity to cover the course.

“The level of disruption varies hugely from student to student – some students may not have missed any class time with their teacher, whilst others may have missed weeks.

“I have spoken to many students over the last number of weeks. The uncertainty is becoming exhausting, 6th year students are under incredible pressure.

“Students deserve clarity; and they deserve a choice.

“The student voice must be placed at the heart of this debate. I am today urging all TDs to amplify students’ voices and support them in their call for choice

“The Minister for Education must take decisive and urgent action, to bring clarity and peace of mind to the Class of 2022.”

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

I welcome tonight’s statement from the Ceann Comhairle and her acceptance of the position set out by Sinn Féin and the combined Opposition - you cannot be in government and opposition at the same time.

This was a stroke too far on the back of a grubby deal and everyone knows…

One year ago today, history was made as I took up the position of First Minister.

Every day since, I’ve worked to ensure all our people are fairly represented and to meet the needs and aspirations of workers, families and communities.

I remain determined to do everything I can…

Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney has welcomed the passing of a motion in the Assembly supporting greater north-south co-operation.

@DeclanKearneySF

👋 Meet your new Sinn Féin ministerial team.

Our strong Sinn Féin team in the Executive will work to continue leading positive change and improve the lives of workers, families and communities.

4

Load More

Statements