The Commission on the Points System recommends that the practice of allocating bonus marks in the leaving certificate to candidates who answer through the medium of Irish should end. The report of the commission is a lengthy one containing many recommendations which require careful consideration. Already, as one would expect, it has given rise to considerable interest and debate among the public. It is important to allow adequate time for the public to become acquainted with the issues raised and with the recommendations contained in the report. I do not, therefore, intend to make an immediate decision on the question of the allocation of bonus marks for Irish in the leaving certificate. The question of awarding bonus marks to candidates who answer through Irish in the junior certificate will be considered in the light of the arrangements in place for the leaving certificate.