Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 Feb 2000

Vol. 513 No. 6

Written Answers. - Points System.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

139 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the findings of the study into the points system issue; the recommendations and action, if any, he has taken or will take as a result; the resources, if any, he has committed to deal with the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3334/00]

John Perry

Question:

156 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the recommendations of the points commission which he plans to adopt immediately; and if he will give details of the recommendations he plans to reject. [3167/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 156 together.

The final report and recommendations of the Commission on the Points System was presented to the previous Minister and published in December last. The report represents the culmination of two years of intensive research, discussion and debate. It covers a wide range of issues and includes many recommendations on various complex issues including lifelong learning, mature students, part-time courses, support for the existing selection system, students from disadvantaged backgrounds, students with disabilities, healthcare courses and many other topics. The report is available to the general public in hard copy format and on the commission's website.

This wide-ranging report requires careful analysis in view of the number, scope and importance of the recommendations. The commission's recommendations are currently being considered by my officials and planning for an implementation strategy is under way.