The ISSU has released a statement highlighting its disappointment at its non-inclusion in the discussion around the Leaving Certificate results release date.

Reuban Murray is President of ISSU (Irish Second-Level Students Union)

“The ISSU (Irish Second-Level Students Union) is disappointed to not have been included in the discussion around the Leaving Certificate results release date prior to it being announced on Thursday 16th July. Students are sharing their queries and concerns with the ISSU and we will communicate these to the Department to seek clarity on all matters of concern as soon as possible.

“The importance of effective collaboration and communication has been pivotal since the closure of schools on March 12th. The ISSU would hope for this approach of engagement with all stakeholders to continue going forward in navigating through this difficult time in education. Students are understandably frustrated that this information has come completely out of the blue through media sources, without a centralised line of communication.

“We welcome the fact that a clear timeline has been announced and students now know when they will have their results. However, with the release of results being delayed by three weeks, this will undoubtedly have a negative impact on some students in their ability to prepare for the transition to the next step in their education.

“Since the announcement, concerns have been expressed by students on the difficulties this may cause in securing accommodation and the financial implications this delay could have. We expect the Department to work to address and find remedies to these impacts so students may progress to the next stages of their lives.

“We congratulate Minister Foley on reaching an agreement with UCAS. However, it is imperative that the guidelines on procedures for students applying overseas are disseminated as soon as possible to ascertain that these students will not be disadvantaged.

“We are aware that the reason for the delay is that these results need to be able to stand up to scrutiny and to ensure the integrity of the Leaving Certificate State Examinations – it is vital that students’ qualifications are of an equal standard to other years and we recognise the national standardisation process is essential in ensuring this.

“The ISSU will continue to seek answers to these questions from the Department and we hope that these series of events will ensure there is a stronger line of communication and consultation between students and other stakeholders going forward.”

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