Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 5

Written Answers. - Re-examination of Leaving Certificate Paper.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

86 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education if, in regard to a request for a recheck of leaving certificate, 1991, chemistry examination results in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, a full re-examination of the paper in question took place or a recheck of marks already awarded; if a recheck of marks already awarded could or should involve a full reappraisal of marks awarded by a different examiner, without reference to the earlier result; if a second opinion would be beneficial in such cases; the plans, if any, she has to set up a procedure whereby a full re-examination of papers takes place where such a dispute arises; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

Each script on which a review is sought is fully marked afresh by an experienced examiner other than the original examiner. In the case in question the chemistry script was scrupulously reexamined by a second examiner but no change in the original grade awarded was found to be warranted. There is no provision for a candidate's script to be marked by a third examiner and I am satisfied that the present procedures meet the needs of candidates. Incidentally, the candidate in question sat the leaving certificate examination in 1992 not 1991.