Vol. 530 No. 6
441 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will deal with the Commission on the Points System report which has been with him since 1999; if he will ensure that the loophole which allows those who can afford to attend private colleges a distinct advantage with regard to repeat leaving certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4884/01]
As the Deputy will be aware, the Report of the Commission on the Points System recommends that the points system be retained on the basis that it is well established, is broadly fair and transparent and is generally accepted by the public at large. Nonetheless, the report identified a number of weaknesses and drawbacks in the current system and makes recommendations on a wide range of issues including lifelong learning, access to third-level education for mature students, students from disadvantaged backgrounds and students with disabilities, entry to healthcare courses, and the leaving certificate grading and points system.
On the specific issue of repeating the leaving certificate, the Commission recommended that the points and basic entry requirements, with the exception of Irish in the NUI colleges, be attained in the same sitting of the leaving certificate. Having regard to the relevant statutory provisions, this recommendation along with others dealing with the admission arrangements applied by third level institutions, fall within the responsibility of third level institutions themselves. The Higher Education Authority has been requested to pursue these recommendations with the relevant institutions and I expect to receive a progress report in this regard shortly.
