Green Party education spokesperson Conor Dowling has said the government must ensure stronger contingency planning for State examinations after practical exams scheduled for Monday were deferred due to disruption caused by fuel protests.
The State Examinations Commission confirmed that Leaving Certificate Music and Junior Cycle Home Economics practical exams due to take place on Monday have been postponed because it could not guarantee that students and examiners would be able to travel to schools.
Dowling said the situation will be deeply worrying for students preparing for key exams.
“Students preparing for the biggest exams of their lives should not be finding out the day before that their exam is cancelled. Young people who have spent months preparing deserve certainty at this stage.”
He said that while the decision to defer the exams may have been unavoidable, it highlights the need for stronger planning.
“When disruptions arise, Government should have clear contingency plans already in place so that schools, students and families know what will happen. Cancelling practical exams the day before inevitably creates stress for students who are already under enormous pressure.”
Dowling said the immediate priority must now be clear communication with affected schools and students.
“Preferably cancellations would be announced only after alternative times have been chosen. The Department must ensure alternative arrangements are put in place immediately and that students are treated fairly so they can focus on their exams rather than worrying about disruptions beyond their control.”