asked the Minister for Education the number of pupils expected to repeat the leaving certificate in 1989; and the corresponding figures for (i) 1986 (ii) 1987 and (iii) 1988.
Written Answers. - Leaving Certificate Pupils.
195.
The number of repeat school candidates entered for the 1989 leaving certificate examination is 7,300. The corresponding figures for 1987 and 1988 were 6,459 and 6,518 respectively. Such candidates were not categorised separately in 1986.
196.
asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some students are not able to repeat the leaving certificate due to the high cost of fees; and if these fees can be reduced for low income families.
The rules provide that where the parent or guardian of a repeat candidate is a medical card holder only the ordinary fee payable by first-time candidates will apply. Repeat candidates may also have their fees reduced under the fees waiver scheme.