Vol. 480 No. 8
114 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which he will ensure that the current distress of students and parents in relation to the marking of the 1997 higher English leaving certificate paper will not recur. [15211/97]
I want to ensure that any anxieties in relation to the marking of any of our State examinations are allayed.
I can confirm that the appeals process this year was conducted with full rigour and integrity. Appeal candidates can be assured that their work was fully remarked fairly and equitably and in line with the marking scheme applied to the work of all candidates in the 1997 leaving certificate higher level English examination. The full marking scheme used by examiners for the 1997 English higher level examination, together with a comprehensive report by the chief examiner, will be published shortly.
I am also committed to introducing further changes to improve the examination system. I intend to establish an expert group to commission research, receive submissions and to advise me on policy approaches in relation to the examinations and their operation. In this they will be asked to take account of examples of best international practice.
