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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Apr 1989

Vol. 388 No. 6

Written Answers. - Matriculation Examination.

4.

asked the Minister for Education if she has been advised of the recently announced reforms proposed by the National University of Ireland in relation to the Matriculation examination; if so, if she will outline (a) the nature of these reforms and (b) the consultation which has taken place and with whom in the course of the formulation of these reforms; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

I have had no formal communication of what the National University of Ireland have in mind concerning their matriculation examination. I am aware only of what has been in the public press, following which my Department sought a copy of the press release.

The Secretary of the Department conveyed to Dr. Whitaker, Chancellor of the NUI, on 25th January 1989 my support for the abolition of the matriculation examination. He also told him that I would be happy to meet the NUI to discuss any consequent arrangements that might have to be put in place.

The Secretary of the Department also met Dr. Whitaker and others in February 1988 and discussed the position of the NUI matriculation.

The departmental task force which reviewed admission procedures to third-level education recommended that the NUI be requested to discontinue the matriculation examination except in subjects which are not on the leaving certificate programme.

The NUI did not consult the Department before issuing their recent press release on 6 April 1989.

While requirements for matriculation in the NUI are a matter for the university, I now intend to meet with the NUI myself to discuss the matter further.

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