theirishtimes--2020-08-18--NI education minister faces criticism over A-level results

The controversy over exam results in Northern Ireland underlines the “ absolute necessity ” of a full time return to school for all pupils from next week , the North ’ s education minister has said .
“ One of the lessons that I think has to be learned is there is no substitute for having examinations themselves , ” Peter Weir told the Assembly on Tuesday .
“ It is the only thing which can be seen to be entirely robust and fair ... and underlines the absolute necessity of having a full return , a full safe return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Appearing before Stormont ’ s education committee later on Tuesday , he emphasised that ministers viewed the full-time return to school as a priority .
“ If there are measures that as an Executive we have to row back on , there would be extreme reluctance for education to be one of them , ” he said .
MLAs had been recalled from their summer recess to debate the fallout in the Assembly following last week ’ s issuing of A and AS level results .
A significant number of marks were downgraded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board to calculate students ’ results .
However , the minister reversed the policy on Monday , announcing that A and AS level students will receive either the grades predicted by their school or college , or the official grade they were awarded by the exam board last week , whichever is the highest .
GCSE results - which are released on Thursday - will be based only on the predicted grades supplied by teachers .
MLAs therefore debated an amended motion , which welcomed the minister ’ s change of stance and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and universities in Northern Ireland and called on the minister “ to work urgently with Executive colleagues to provide clarity and guidance to students and educational institutions.
” Queen ’ s University in Belfast on Tuesday called for “ clarity as a matter of urgency ” on revised grades in order to confirm students ’ places and on government funding to support potentially 500-1,000 additional students .
The numbers of Northern Ireland and EU students attending the North ’ s universities are capped because their tuition fees are partially funded by the Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students are given improved grades , ” Queen ’ s said in a statement , “ urgent consideration must be given to how their university places are funded ” as this is “ likely to significantly exceed ” the cap .
Ulster University said it would be “ as flexible as possible in order to accommodate the maximum number of students possible.
” The economy minister , Diane Dodds , told the BBC the Executive “ should work hard and collectively to provide those additional places , ” while the finance minister , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy to work with Executive colleagues to identify the necessary resources to achive this.
” The education minister in the Assembly said he believed there would have to be a “ UK wide solution ” because “ that level of funding can not simply be plucked out of the air .
“ All of us will need , from whatever party , to work together to be able to change that cap , to be able to provide that additional level of funding , ” he said .
During the two and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the other parties , with the SDLP , Sinn Féin and Alliance accusing him of taking the “ lead from London ” by failing to move on exam results until a similar change was announced in England , and the People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll calling on the minister to consider his position .
The SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan , who proposed the motion , told the minister he was “ glad you ’ ve moved but I regret that it took Boris Johnson or London to move first , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house , are we here as public representatives for the people of the North of Ireland or Northern Ireland ?
“ Are we here to represent them or are we to take our lead from London ?
Are we here to put first the best interests of our young people , of our teachers , or are we to follow London , the British government , in relation to their agenda ?
There are real , serious questions about what has happened here , ” he said .
“ This could have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed the Tories and waited on England to lead , ” said Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan .
“ The minister needs to take a stark lesson from this.
” The Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle , who is the chair of the Stormont education committee , said it was “ seriously concerning that a pattern is emerging of a minister consistently following a Conservative government rather than leading for the people of Northern Ireland , a Conservative government that has adopted a slow , inadequate , and flawed response to the Covid-19 pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said everybody should be “ rightly grateful ” for the change in stance , and while he wished had come sooner , he also wished to commend the work of the education committee on “ how robustly we worked on that together and I thought that was remarkably good and perhaps gave some hope to the people of Northern Ireland that when we come together we can achieve much.
” Mr Weir defended his record and that of his department and the exam board , saying they had been facing “ unprecedented challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have had its flaws and drawbacks , overall the grades awarded by the exam board last week had increased compared to 2019 .
He said his principal concern had been to ensure Northern Ireland ’ s young people were not disadvantaged compared to their counterparts in the rest of the UK .
To those who “ accuse me of simply following what is done at Westminster , ” he said , every decision had been taken in line with advice from the Public Health Agency and the North ’ s Chief Medical Officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decide things on health grounds we have to go to those experts.
” The motion was passed without any dissenting voices .

Northern Ireland Minister for Education Peter Weir: rejected claims he had followed London, describing an ’inextricable link’ between Northern Ireland and Britain.
The controversy over exam results in Northern Ireland underlines the "absolute necessity" of a full time return to school for all pupils from next week, the North's education minister has said.
"One of the lessons that I think has to be learned is there is no substitute for having examinations themselves," Peter Weir told the Assembly on Tuesday. "It is the only thing which can be seen to be entirely robust and fair ... and underlines the absolute necessity of having a full return, a full safe return to school five days a week."
Appearing before Stormont’s education committee later on Tuesday, he emphasised that ministers viewed the full-time return to school as a priority.
“If there are measures that as an Executive we have to row back on, there would be extreme reluctance for education to be one of them,” he said.
READ MORE
MLAs had been recalled from their summer recess to debate the fallout in the Assembly following last week’s issuing of A and AS level results.
A significant number of marks were downgraded by an algorithm used by the exam board to calculate students’ results.
However, the minister reversed the policy on Monday, announcing that A and AS level students will receive either the grades predicted by their school or college, or the official grade they were awarded by the exam board last week, whichever is the highest.
GCSE results - which are released on Thursday - will be based only on the predicted grades supplied by teachers.
MLAs therefore debated an amended motion, which welcomed the minister’s change of stance and recognised the implications for further education colleges and universities in Northern Ireland and called on the minister “to work urgently with Executive colleagues to provide clarity and guidance to students and educational institutions.”
Queen’s University in Belfast on Tuesday called for “clarity as a matter of urgency” on revised grades in order to confirm students’ places and on government funding to support potentially 500-1,000 additional students.
The numbers of Northern Ireland and EU students attending the North’s universities are capped because their tuition fees are partially funded by the Northern Executive.
“If substantial numbers of students are given improved grades,” Queen’s said in a statement, “urgent consideration must be given to how their university places are funded” as this is “likely to significantly exceed” the cap.
Flexible
Ulster University said it would be “as flexible as possible in order to accommodate the maximum number of students possible.”
The economy minister, Diane Dodds, told the BBC the Executive “should work hard and collectively to provide those additional places,” while the finance minister, Conor Murphy, said he was “happy to work with Executive colleagues to identify the necessary resources to achive this.”
The education minister in the Assembly said he believed there would have to be a “UK wide solution” because “that level of funding cannot simply be plucked out of the air.
“All of us will need, from whatever party, to work together to be able to change that cap, to be able to provide that additional level of funding,” he said.
During the two and a half hour debate Mr Weir faced criticism from the other parties, with the SDLP, Sinn Féin and Alliance accusing him of taking the “lead from London” by failing to move on exam results until a similar change was announced in England, and the People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll calling on the minister to consider his position.
The SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan, who proposed the motion, told the minister he was “glad you’ve moved but I regret that it took Boris Johnson or London to move first, and it really begs the question of this house, are we here as public representatives for the people of the North of Ireland or Northern Ireland?
Serious questions
“Are we here to represent them or are we to take our lead from London? Are we here to put first the best interests of our young people, of our teachers, or are we to follow London, the British government, in relation to their agenda? There are real, serious questions about what has happened here,” he said.
“This could have been avoided if the minister hadn’t followed the Tories and waited on England to lead,” said Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan. “The minister needs to take a stark lesson from this.”
The Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle, who is the chair of the Stormont education committee, said it was "seriously concerning that a pattern is emerging of a minister consistently following a Conservative government rather than leading for the people of Northern Ireland, a Conservative government that has adopted a slow, inadequate, and flawed response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Ulster Unionist MLA Robbie Butler said everybody should be “rightly grateful” for the change in stance, and while he wished had come sooner, he also wished to commend the work of the education committee on “how robustly we worked on that together and I thought that was remarkably good and perhaps gave some hope to the people of Northern Ireland that when we come together we can achieve much.”
Mr Weir defended his record and that of his department and the exam board, saying they had been facing “unprecedented challenges” and while every system adopted would have had its flaws and drawbacks, overall the grades awarded by the exam board last week had increased compared to 2019.
He said his principal concern had been to ensure Northern Ireland’s young people were not disadvantaged compared to their counterparts in the rest of the UK.
To those who “accuse me of simply following what is done at Westminster,” he said, every decision had been taken in line with advice from the Public Health Agency and the North’s Chief Medical Officer, “and if we are to decide things on health grounds we have to go to those experts.”
The motion was passed without any dissenting voices.


theirishtimes--2020-08-18--Ireland’s only boarding school for primary children to reopen

Ireland ’ s only boarding school for primary school children is set to reopen after closing earlier this year due to financial problems exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic .
Following a fundraising drive by past-pupils which generated more than €250,000 , Headfort School in Kells , Co Meath will open to children aged from four to 13 years of age in September .
The school ’ s backers say they have secured 60 “ firm commitments ” for pupils with fees set at €7,000 per annum for day pupils rising to €14,000 for boarders .
Junior infant to second class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while children may board from third class upwards at the school ’ s Georgian mansion .
“ Flexi ” boarding - up to two nights a week - and sleepovers will be available to day pupils , according to the new school prospectus .
Pupils will also have access to a range of extra-curricular activities including cricket , golf and riding .
Some children may also choose to stable their ponies at the school which has 60 acres of grounds and a cross-country course , the prospectus adds .
Ronnie Culliton , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the school has set an enrolment target of 80 pupils and a fundraising goal of €400,000 .
“ We felt when we sat down and discussed things two weeks ago that we had enough to justify formally opening the doors of the school but we are trying to push harder to get more enrolments , ” he said .
The school , which was founded by Lord and Lady Headfort in 1949 closed suddenly last March due to financial challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.The school does not receive State support and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional Covid-19 safety measures , will be covered by privately-sourced income .

Pictured outside Headfort school are (from left to right) headmaster Kevin Allwright; Rupert Butler of the senior management team; Lorraine Mancey, board member; Mike Bolton, senior management team; Marcus Williams and Jack Blakiston Houston, both board members. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill / The Irish Times
Ireland’s only boarding school for primary school children is set to reopen after closing earlier this year due to financial problems exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Following a fundraising drive by past-pupils which generated more than €250,000, Headfort School in Kells, Co Meath will open to children aged from four to 13 years of age in September.
The school’s backers say they have secured 60 “firm commitments” for pupils with fees set at €7,000 per annum for day pupils rising to €14,000 for boarders.
Junior infant to second class will involve a Montessori-style approach to learning, while children may board from third class upwards at the school’s Georgian mansion.
READ MORE
"Flexi" boarding - up to two nights a week - and sleepovers will be available to day pupils, according to the new school prospectus.
Pupils will also have access to a range of extra-curricular activities including cricket, golf and riding. Some children may also choose to stable their ponies at the school which has 60 acres of grounds and a cross-country course, the prospectus adds.
Headfort School, based in a Georgian mansion in Kells, Co Meath was founded by Lord and Lady Headfort in 1949. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill / The Irish Times
Ronnie Culliton, chairman of the Headfort School board, said the school has set an enrolment target of 80 pupils and a fundraising goal of €400,000.
“We felt when we sat down and discussed things two weeks ago that we had enough to justify formally opening the doors of the school but we are trying to push harder to get more enrolments,” he said.
Former students (from left) Jake Rowan Hamilton, Marta Mora Ortega, Michael Blakiston Houston, Finn Doyne and Sholto O’Brien preparing one of the class rooms at Headfort School as it prepares to reopen in September.Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill / The Irish Times
The school, which was founded by Lord and Lady Headfort in 1949 closed suddenly last March due to financial challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.The school does not receive State support and all running costs, including paying for additional Covid-19 safety measures, will be covered by privately-sourced income.


theirishtimes--2020-08-18--Over 70s are still not being consulted on Covid-19, groups say

The limited nature of new restrictions for older people have been welcomed by advocacy groups , although the organisations criticise what they say is a continued lack of consultation with the over 70s on the Covid-19 crisis .
Allaying concerns that vulnerable groups would be urged to cocoon again amid a rise in coronavirus case numbers , Taoiseach Micheál Martin said on Tuesday that older people would instead be asked to “ exercise their individual judgment to limit their interactions to a small network for short periods , to avoid public transport where possible and to shop during designated hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while announcing the tightening of some key restrictions up until September 13th in response to the spike in Covid-19 cases here .
Paddy Connolly , chief executive of Age Action Ireland , said the measures reflected “ what older people are already doing .
“ What ’ s missing , however , is any strategy as to how older and vulnerable people are going to live with Covid on an ongoing basis.
” He said there were 430,000 people in the State over the age of 70 , who have a myriad of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ One blanket strategy covering all older people is not good enough anymore .
Older people , just like trade unions and teachers , are stakeholders in this crisis and yet they have not been engaged with in any meaningful way so far.
” Seán Moynihan , chief executive of Alone , welcomed that older people were being trusted to “ use their discretion to keep themselves safe ” , but added : “ There has so far been a lot of talking at older people and not a lot of talking with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of the three-week period of the new measures , a “ more nuanced and targeted ” approach would be taken to the over 70s , reflecting their widely varying situations .
Maureen Kavanagh , chief executive of Active Retirement Ireland , said it was “ unfair ” to urge older people to reduce their social interactions over the next three weeks .
“ Since the outbreak of Covid-19 our older people cocooned and diligently followed all of the Government advice .
Our older people sacrificed seeing their families , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed the guidelines and remained indoors for the duration of lockdown .
“ Asking them to stay indoors again and to reduce their social interaction is unfair after they have already sacrificed so much , and while our members will comply with this advice , they feel that they alone are being asked to bear the brunt of this.
” She said recent outbreaks of Covid-19 had not been among older people .
“ We do not believe in pitting one generation against another .
Everyone must act together if we are to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as much as anyone , understand the need to protect our older citizens , we believe the distinct causes of the recent surge in cases must be dealt with , rather than reimposing restrictions on some of the most vulnerable in our society .
”

Advocacy groups have responded to the new measures for the over 70s. Photograph: Getty
The limited nature of new restrictions for older people have been welcomed by advocacy groups, although the organisations criticise what they say is a continued lack of consultation with the over 70s on the Covid-19 crisis.
Allaying concerns that vulnerable groups would be urged to cocoon again amid a rise in coronavirus case numbers, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said on Tuesday that older people would instead be asked to “exercise their individual judgment to limit their interactions to a small network for short periods, to avoid public transport where possible and to shop during designated hours”.
Mr Martin made the comments while announcing the tightening of some key restrictions up until September 13th in response to the spike in Covid-19 cases here.
Paddy Connolly, chief executive of Age Action Ireland, said the measures reflected "what older people are already doing.
READ MORE
“What’s missing, however, is any strategy as to how older and vulnerable people are going to live with Covid on an ongoing basis.”
He said there were 430,000 people in the State over the age of 70, who have a myriad of health, well-being and household circumstances.
“One blanket strategy covering all older people is not good enough anymore. Older people, just like trade unions and teachers, are stakeholders in this crisis and yet they have not been engaged with in any meaningful way so far.”
Seán Moynihan, chief executive of Alone, welcomed that older people were being trusted to “use their discretion to keep themselves safe”, but added: “There has so far been a lot of talking at older people and not a lot of talking with them.”
He said he hoped that at the end of the three-week period of the new measures, a “more nuanced and targeted” approach would be taken to the over 70s, reflecting their widely varying situations.
‘Unfair’
Maureen Kavanagh, chief executive of Active Retirement Ireland, said it was "unfair" to urge older people to reduce their social interactions over the next three weeks.
“Since the outbreak of Covid-19 our older people cocooned and diligently followed all of the Government advice. Our older people sacrificed seeing their families, they adapted to using new technologies, they followed the guidelines and remained indoors for the duration of lockdown.
“Asking them to stay indoors again and to reduce their social interaction is unfair after they have already sacrificed so much, and while our members will comply with this advice, they feel that they alone are being asked to bear the brunt of this.”
She said recent outbreaks of Covid-19 had not been among older people.
“We do not believe in pitting one generation against another. Everyone must act together if we are to come through this. While we, as much as anyone, understand the need to protect our older citizens, we believe the distinct causes of the recent surge in cases must be dealt with, rather than reimposing restrictions on some of the most vulnerable in our society.”


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--North health minister to recommend reintroduction of restrictions

Northern Ireland ’ s health minister is to recommend the reintroduction of restrictions to limit the spread of coronavirus when the Northern Executive meets on Thursday .
Measures could include a reduction in the number of people allowed to meet in a household or outdoors , or at sporting events , as well as restrictions in specific council areas where there are high rates of infection .
A recommendation to avoid public transport , as has been introduced in the Republic of Ireland , was “ not something that is on the table at this minute in time ” , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would present a range of options based on the advice of the North ’ s chief medical officer and chief scientific officer .
The minister told the BBC ’ s Stephen Nolan Show on Wednesday he would “ never prejudge ” the Executive ’ s decision but that his recommendation would be “ to take some further steps in regards to implementing some of the restrictions that we have removed in the past ” .
Mr Swann also warned he could not rule out a return to a full lockdown in Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s something that we need to do in the future , I think it ’ s something that we will have to do , but I sincerely hope that we never get to the position again that we were in at the start of the year.
” However , he said , “ if people act responsibly now we can arrest this spread of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland so we don ’ t have to get into the place where we need the full lockdown again but we could look at incremental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be enforced that can be relaxed as we see the spread of Covid-19 either increasing or reducing.
” The coronavirus regulations in force in Northern Ireland are due to be reviewed by the Executive on Thursday .
Rates of infection have been rising in the North in recent weeks .
According to the North ’ s chief scientific officer , Prof Ian Young , the average number of new cases was now more than 40 per day , compared to three or four at the end of June and beginning of July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael McBride , told the BBC on Wednesday that the level of infection in Northern Ireland was currently at 24 per 100,000 , but this concealed significant geographical variation , between less than three per 100,000 in Fermanagh and Omagh , but 55 in Mid and East Antrim .
“ If we ’ re seeing levels of community transmission rising above 80 per 100,000 at Northern Ireland level , or at a local level , then we ’ re back into territory where we need to act very decisively , ” Dr McBride @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may wish to intervene before that point , “ because obviously if we intervene at an earlier stage then we can prevent the excesses of some of the measures that we had to introduce before.
” Meanwhile jury trials have resumed in the North for the first time since mid-March .
The trial began at Laganside Courts in Belfast on Wednesday , and the department of justice plans to open five more Crown Court venues by the end of September .
The justice minister , Naomi Long , said it had been “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during lockdown , but a number of physical alterations had been made to courtrooms to make it possible for them to resume .
Social distancing and hygiene measures should also be observed in court buildings , and face masks worn in communal areas .
“ Everything possible has been done to get jury trials up and running in the safest and most efficient way possible , ” Ms Long said .
“ Jury trials are one of the cornerstones of our justice system , and it is a hugely significant step that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them again .
”

Northern Ireland’s Department of Health (DoH) reported 34 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, bringing the total number of people who have tested positive for the virus in the North to 6,505.
Over the last seven days, 294 cases have been identified.
No further fatalities were reported. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths recorded by the department remains at 559.
Northern Ireland’s health minister is to recommend the reintroduction of restrictions to limit the spread of coronavirus when the Northern Executive meets on Thursday.
READ MORE
Measures could include a reduction in the number of people allowed to meet in a household or outdoors, or at sporting events, as well as restrictions in specific council areas where there are high rates of infection.
A recommendation to avoid public transport, as has been introduced in the Republic of Ireland, was "not something that is on the table at this minute in time", Robin Swann said.
He said he would present a range of options based on the advice of the North’s chief medical officer and chief scientific officer.
The minister told the BBC's Stephen Nolan Show on Wednesday he would "never prejudge" the Executive's decision but that his recommendation would be "to take some further steps in regards to implementing some of the restrictions that we have removed in the past".
Rates of infection
Mr Swann also warned he could not rule out a return to a full lockdown in Northern Ireland in the future. "If it's something that we need to do in the future, I think it's something that we will have to do, but I sincerely hope that we never get to the position again that we were in at the start of the year."
However, he said, “if people act responsibly now we can arrest this spread of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland so we don’t have to get into the place where we need the full lockdown again but we could look at incremental measures over a period of time that can be enforced that can be relaxed as we see the spread of Covid-19 either increasing or reducing.”
The coronavirus regulations in force in Northern Ireland are due to be reviewed by the Executive on Thursday.
Rates of infection have been rising in the North in recent weeks. According to the North's chief scientific officer, Prof Ian Young, the average number of new cases was now more than 40 per day, compared to three or four at the end of June and beginning of July.
The chief medical officer, Dr Michael McBride, told the BBC on Wednesday that the level of infection in Northern Ireland was currently at 24 per 100,000, but this concealed significant geographical variation, between less than three per 100,000 in Fermanagh and Omagh, but 55 in Mid and East Antrim.
“If we’re seeing levels of community transmission rising above 80 per 100,000 at Northern Ireland level, or at a local level, then we’re back into territory where we need to act very decisively,” Dr McBride said.
Trials
However he warned the Executive may wish to intervene before that point, “because obviously if we intervene at an earlier stage then we can prevent the excesses of some of the measures that we had to introduce before.”
Meanwhile jury trials have resumed in the North for the first time since mid-March. The trial began at Laganside Courts in Belfast on Wednesday, and the department of justice plans to open five more Crown Court venues by the end of September.
The justice minister, Naomi Long, said it had been "logistically impossible" to hold jury trials during lockdown, but a number of physical alterations had been made to courtrooms to make it possible for them to resume.
Social distancing and hygiene measures should also be observed in court buildings, and face masks worn in communal areas. “Everything possible has been done to get jury trials up and running in the safest and most efficient way possible,” Ms Long said.
“Jury trials are one of the cornerstones of our justice system, and it is a hugely significant step that we are now in a position to accommodate them again.”


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Nursing home report calls for review of staff terms and conditions

A review will be undertaken of working conditions of staff in the State ’ s nursing homes , under a wide-ranging report into the sector to be launched today .
The report will also call for improved education and professionalisation , as well as imposing new rules that will see nursing homes forced to prove their infection control standards are up to scratch before receiving new patients .
The report was commissioned by the previous Minister for Health , Simon Harris , and will be published by his successor Stephen Donnelly this afternoon .
It is understood the employment terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be subject to a review by Government , with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment likely to be asked to take the lead .
The report will also recommend that it be a requirement to have personal protective equipment readily available in nursing homes around the State , with a supervisor on hand to ensure it is used appropriately .
It will also call for the influenza vaccine to be prioritised for all residents , and to consider making it mandatory for staff to take the vaccine - a landmark step @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the nursing home sector , as well as the provision and proper use of adequate supplies , have been suggested as possible reasons for the rampant spread of Covid-19 through the sector , with almost 1,000 pandemic-linked deaths recorded among residents and staff .
Nursing home providers will be mandated to improve education and professionalisation standards in the workforce , with staff required to hold or be working towards a QQI level five qualification within 18 months .
There will also be changes to admission policy , with only nursing homes which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sufficiently high standard to ensure there is no risk of onward infection .
HIQA will be asked to maintain a register of nursing homes it deems to have demonstrated sufficient infections control standards , to support decision making on this issue .

Residents in nursing homes accounted for more than half of all Covid-19 related death in the State: Photograph: iStock
An independent expert panel on the impact of Covid-19 on the nursing home sector has recommended extra funding be pumped into the State’s Fair Deal scheme, and called for greater financial transparency from private sector homes.
The wide ranging report, which contains some 86 recommendations, was published on Tuesday.
In a section on the funding of the Nursing Home Support Scheme (NHSS), also known as the ‘Fair Deal’ scheme, which contributes more than €1 billion a year to the sector, the report states that “in the panels view, additional funding will be required” and states that “the sustainability of such scale of intervention poses significant challenges”.
It notes that “in the absence of published financial accounts”, contributions to the scheme from private providers are “unknown”, but says that “investment will be required to ensure nursing home adherence to HIQA’s nursing home standards and further ongoing costs arising from Covid-19.”
READ MORE
The report also recommends that increased integration of private and voluntary homes into the wider health system “requires enhanced transparency of operation, funding and finances of these nursing homes”, and that how these homes are funded and spend both public and private money “should be clearly transparent and measures should be considered to ensure this”.
Asked about the possibility of increased exchequer funding for the sector, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said he would “most certainly” advocate for a greater budget at cabinet.
He said that while an implementation group was due to examine the costs of putting the report’s recommendations in place, that once it goes to cabinet, “yes it will be going with a request to my cabinet colleagues for additional funding”.
Tadhg Daly, the chief executive of industry lobby group Nursing Homes Ireland, defended private operators transparency. “The fair deal is a statutory regime of support set up under legislation and the accounts and records of all nursing homes are submitted to NTPF around negotiation of fee rates. There is full transparency and they (the expert panel) are ill informed in that particular recommendation,” he said.
”The issue around the contribution in terms of fair deal was highlighted by the C&AG, who stated it was the HSE where it was difficult to get a sense of budgets in their own units,” he said.
The report called for improved standards in education and professionalisation among staff in the sector, with providers mandated to ensure that staff either hold or are working towards a QQI level five qualification within 18 months.
In a move that was welcomed by unions, the report recommended a review of employment terms and conditions of nurse and healthcare assistant staffing grades.
Siptu deputy general secretary for the public service John King said that the union “believe(s) the Department of Health and the HSE must now move to provide the necessary resources and capacity to make sure the provision of health care for our older people is protected and improved to the appropriate level of care that our most vulnerable deserve.”
The report also recommended that for the next 18 months, or until the pandemic is over, staff should be precluded from working across multiple sites and should be given single-site employment contracts.
It makes a landmark recommendation that consideration should be given to making the influenza vaccine mandatory for staff in nursing homes, a step which has not been taken by the State previously due to constitutional concerns.
There will also be changes to admission policy, with new patients only admitted to nursing homes which can demonstrate their infection control measures are of sufficiently high standard to ensure there is no risk of onward infection.
Hiqa will be asked to maintain a register of nursing homes it deems to have demonstrated sufficient infection control standards, to support decision making on this issue.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Storm Ellen to hit Ireland with ‘severe and potentially damaging winds’

A status orange wind warning will come into force for counties Galway , Mayo , Clare , Kerry , Limerick and Waterford on Wednesday as Storm Ellen hits Ireland .
Met Éireann has upgraded the wind warning for Cork to status red , warning of “ very severe and destructive winds ” between 9pm and midnight .
Met Éireann said the storm will bring severe and potentially damaging winds and there is also a risk of flooding , with heavy rain forecast for the coming days .
The orange warning is in place from 9pm on Wednesday until midday on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place for the entire country from 9pm on Wednesday until midnight on Thursday .
Evelyn Cusack , head of forecasting with Met Éireann , has warned that as Storm Ellen approaches orange weather alerts could be issued anywhere across the country .
Ms Cusack told Newstalk Breakfast that Storm Ellen will hit Kerry and the southwest of Ireland on Wednesday evening and then head up along the west coast and possibly pass across the remainder of the country overnight .
The worst of the winds will be during the night hours , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage as this is the time of the year when trees are in full leaf and it is also one of the wettest months .
Ms Cusack said although the worst of the winds should have passed over the country on Wednesday night , there would still be gales and high seas on Thursday and Friday .
“ While the storm itself may pass tonight , you ’ re in for a very , very poor unseasonable weather and a very challenging few days.
” The nationwide yellow alert could escalate to orange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the storm , she said .
“ So all areas really have to be on alert for orange level impacts tonight.
” Ms Cusack also warned of flooding , both in coastal areas , and also from rivers and in inland areas .
There could be high waves on lakes , she said and advised people should not be out hill-walking .
Met Éireann has also issued an advisory for unseasonably wet and windy weather for the week .
It states that windy weather on Thursday and Friday may result in unsafe conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas .
Weather advisories may be issued by Met Éireann to provide early information on potential hazardous weather beyond 48 hours .
The National Directorate of Fire and Emergency Management has warned Storm Ellen will be an ‘ exceptional ’ storm for August .
In a statement , it warned people to stay away from coastal areas during the warnings ; drivers to slow down and be aware of fallen trees ; and people to take account of local conditions and local authority advice .
The body advised anyone who comes across fallen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ESB on 1850 372999 .
It will be dry and cloudy for much of Wednesday morning , however outbreaks of rain in the south will extend gradually northwards .
Parts of Ulster will remain dry until late afternoon .
Another spell of rain will move into the south and southwest on Wednesday evening , moving northwards with highest temperatures between 17 and 21 degrees .
It will be very windy and stormy from Wednesday evening .
Rain in southern counties will move northwards accompanied by strong and gusty southerly winds , reaching gale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coasts .
Lowest temperatures will be between 10 and 14 degrees .
Conditions will continue to be stormy along western coasts on Thursday morning and afternoon as heavy and thundery showers spread northwards along with some sunny spells .
Fresh to strong and gusty southerly winds will be stronger along exposed coasts throughout the day with gale force winds at times along western coasts .
Highest temperatures will be between 16 to 19 degrees .
A further spell of wet and windy weather will move into Atlantic coastal counties early in the night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further heavy and possibly thundery bursts .
Lowest temperatures of 11 to 14 degrees in fresh to strong and gusty southerly winds with near gale or gale force winds near coasts .
It will remain windy in many areas on Friday .
The rain will clear to showers in the southern half of the country during the morning as the rain continues to push northeastwards .
Highest temperatures of between 17 and 20 degrees , with showers continuing through the night , most frequent in Atlantic coastal counties with clear spells elsewhere .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in moderate to fresh southwesterly winds .
Saturday is due to be fresh and breezy with sunny spells and scattered showers , heaviest along the Atlantic coast .
Highest temperatures of 15 to 19 degrees in moderate to fresh westerly winds .
Showers will become more confined to the west and northwest overnight with the best of the clear spells over the midlands .
Lowest temperatures of 10 to 13 degrees in light to moderate westerly breezes .
Sunday will be mostly cloudy with scattered showers and just some sunny spells .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 14 to 18 degrees but reaching 19 degrees near southern coasts .

People are hit by waves on the Front Strand in Youghal, Co Cork on Wednesday. Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
Storm Ellen has hit the southwest coast of Ireland with "very severe and destructive" winds expected over Co Cork in the coming hours.
The worst of Wednesday’s storm system was due to hit the country at 11pm with fallen trees and damage to roads and homes expected.
Met Éireann issued a status red warning for Cork from 9pm on Wednesday to midnight on Thursday while a status orange wind warning has also been issued for the rest of Munster along with Galway and Mayo.
Blustery conditions at Tramore beach, Co Waterford. Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
A yellow wind warning is in place for the entire country from 9pm on Wednesday until midnight on Thursday.
READ MORE
While the worst of the strong winds are set to have passed by Thursday morning, the forecaster warned of heavy rain with a a risk of flooding over the coming days. Temperatures on Thursday are set to range between 17 to 20 degrees Celsius with the heaviest of the rain and strong winds hitting the country in the afternoon.
Advice
According to ESB Networks, 1,864 homes in north Cork have been left without power after a line was damaged near Fermoy while another outage near Kinsale left 11 homes without electricity.
Another power line has come down at Castleview near Little island leaving another 325 homes without power as ESB Networks repair crews battle rain and wind to restore power to homes.
High winds and falling trees brought down power lines in Macroom leaving almost 1,500 homes without electricity and in Cloyne in east Cork where almost 2,000 homes were without power.
In Co Watefrord, some 1,200 homes near Dungarvan have been left without power while 300 homes near Waterford city were also affected as were 1,100 homes in Clonmel in Co Tipperary.
Businesses in Skibbereen in west Cork were bracing themselves for a long night after Bridge Street in the centre of town began to flood shortly after 9pm.
Local Cork South West Social Democrat TD, Holly Cairns posted footage on Twitter showing water flowing down the street.
Members of the Skibbereen Unit of the Cork County Fire Service have gone to the Bridge Street area to try and pump it clear of water and they have been assisted by members of the West Cork Civil Defence.
Meanwhile, Bus Éireann suspended all Cork services from 8pm until 1am as Met Éireann warned that Storm Ellen could see winds gusting over 130km/h.
At 11pm gusts of 143km/h were recorded at Roche’s Point lighthouse, Co Cork, with strong winds reported across the southern coast.
Moore Park weather station in Cork picked up wind gusts of 100km/h, and speeds of 98km/h were recorded at Sherkin Island, according to Met Éireann’s 11pm weather reports
Cork County Council earlier advised homeowners around the county, particularly in coastal areas, to stay indoors.
“Property owners, residents and visitors are advised to prepare for this dangerous weather event, to protect property, to avoid unnecessary journeys and stay indoors during the warning periods,” said the council.
A man gets hit by a wave crashing on the Front Strand in Youghal, Co Cork. Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
People are hit by waves on the Front Strand in Youghal, Co Cork on Wednesday. Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
A man cycles past sandbags placed on the Clontarf Road in Dublin in preparation for storm Ellen. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill
Those camping or in caravans were urged by the council to seek alternative accommodation indoors, as temporary structures are particularly at risk, prompting thousands of holiday makers in campsites and caravan parks in both east Cork and west Cork to pack up and head home for the night.
According to the council, members of the public are advised to stay away from the coast, rivers and lakes as Storm Ellen hits.
Meanwhile, car parks in Salthill, Co Galway, will be closed until the warning has been lifted, due to potential coastal flooding.
Galway City Council said crews will be on standby overnight and will be on-site across the city from 5am on Thursday morning for any potential flooding or wind damage. The council said its Severe Weather Assessment Team will continue to monitor the situation and will put measures in place as necessary.
Meteorologist Joan Blackburn said Storm Ellen would be a “quick event” and that she did not expect the current wind warnings to be extended beyond 8am on Thursday. However, Met Éireann does expect to issue a rainfall warning for thundery downpours on Thursday afternoon, she said.
The forecaster may issue another wind warning for Thursday night but “not at the same level as this evening”, she said.
Not unprecedented
Ms Blackburn described the arrival of a storm of this nature in August as “unusual” but not unprecedented, noting that Hurricane Charlie hit the country at the same time of year in 1986.
“This will not be a record storm,” she said.
The National Directorate of Fire and Emergency Management Crisis Management Team met on Wednesday morning and said local authorities were deploying temporary flood defences and putting response staff on standby in preparation for the storm.
“Trees are in full leaf, with the potential for significant numbers of trees to fall blocking roads and damaging power lines,” it said. “ESB Networks are preparing for significant power outages with staff on standby to repair faults in all areas.”
Minister for Planning Darragh O'Brien urged people to adhere to Met Éireann's weather warnings. He said those on holidays in unfamiliar locations should pay particular attention to the local weather forecast and those in camping sites along the coast to take extra precautions and move to secure ground.
“Many people are away on holidays in coastal counties at this time. They might not be familiar with the area and need to stay back from the coast so that they can remain safe,” he said.
Mr O’Brien and his officials had also been in contact with local authorities to ensure that every support is made available to rough sleepers and others experiencing homelessness.
‘Avoid temptation’
Gerard O’Flynn, head of operations with the Coast Guard, appealed to the public not to take part in any form of coastal activity and “to be mindful of the risk posed by the extreme tide ranges”.
Mr O’Flynn also said the public should “avoid the temptation to try and get a fancy photograph or a selfie”.
“It’s not the time to be taking a risk,” he said.
Mr O’Flynn added that this evening will not “be a time to be out and about”.
“You have the worst combination in terms of weather – you have southerly or southeasterly winds, low pressure and then a forecast of heavy rain,” he said. “Everything is pointing towards very challenging circumstances and localised flooding.”
The Road Safety Authority is advising road users in the area affected not to make any non-essential journeys during the storm window.
Anyone who comes across fallen or damaged electricity wires is being asked to contact the ESB on 1850-372999.
Met Éireann has also issued an advisory for unseasonably wet and windy weather for the week.
It said windy weather on Thursday and Friday may result in unsafe conditions on high ground, lakes and sea areas.
Friday
It will remain windy in many areas on Friday. The rain will clear to showers in the southern half of the country during the morning as the rain continues to push northeastwards. Highest temperatures of between 17 and 20 degrees, with showers continuing through the night, most frequent in Atlantic coastal counties with clear spells elsewhere. Lowest temperatures of 11 to 14 degrees in moderate to fresh southwesterly winds.
Weekend
Saturday is due to be fresh and breezy with sunny spells and scattered showers, heaviest along the Atlantic coast. Highest temperatures of 15 to 19 degrees in moderate to fresh westerly winds.
Showers will become more confined to the west and northwest overnight with the best of the clear spells over the midlands. Lowest temperatures of 10 to 13 degrees in light to moderate westerly breezes.
Sunday will be mostly cloudy with scattered showers and just some sunny spells. It will feel cooler with highest temperatures generally of 14 to 18 degrees but reaching 19 degrees near southern coasts.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Student wins court challenge over exclusion from calculated grades

A Leaving Cert student home-schooled by his mother has won his High Court challenge against the Minister for Education ’ s decision to exclude him from the calculated grades process .
Elijah Burke had claimed the exclusion of students that were tutored by a parent or close relative at home from the calculated grades process breached his rights and was unfair and discriminatory and that he was being punished for being home schooled .
He claimed that as a result of the State ’ s decision he would not be able to progress to third level education for at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivered on Wednesday Mr Justice Charles Meenan held that so much of the calculated grade system that provides for the giving of estimated percentage marks that excludes home schooled students on the grounds that his teacher has a conflict of interest was “ irrational , unreasonable and unlawful.
” The judge said the Minister had refused to give Mr Burke a calculated grade for each of the nine subjects he has studied because he had been taught by his mother Martina Burke , who is a qualified teacher , which was deemed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court , noted that a system was in place in schools to deal with scenarios where a Leaving Cert student has been taught by a parent or close relative .
“ I am satisfied that a non-conflicted or independent teacher or teachers ought to be involved in the place of Elijah ’ s mother in the system for the award of the estimated mark in each of the teen ’ s Leaving Certificate subjects.
” Should it be possible to award the student marks the process set out in by Department of Education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of school learners can operate for Elijah , the judge added .
The judge said his decision was not based on any achievements obtained by Elijah or his siblings .
Such matters , he said , were irrelevant to his decision .
He said he based his decision on what the court believes are the correct legal principles , and the decision is applicable to all students who find themselves in the same situation , irrespective of the achievements of abilities .
During the hearing the court heard that approximately 10 other students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The judge said he was satisfied to quash the Minister ’ s refusal to provide Elijah with a calculated grade .
The judge also said he was satisfied to make a declaration that that the refusal to provide Elijah with a calculated grade in circumstances where the teen had been home schooled by a parent , and thus had a conflict of interest , was arbitrary unfair unreasonable and contrary to law .
Elijah , represented by Paul O Higgins SC , Brendan Hennessy Bl instructed by solicitor Eileen McCabe has applied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sciences or History with Music at NUIG .
The 18-year-old from Cloonsunna , Castlebar , Co Mayo , is one of ten siblings who have all been educated at home by their mother who have all excelled academically .
Elijah claimed the Minister acted unlawfully in failing to have in place a process for receiving and determining applications for calculated grades for pupils who are home schooled by a relative .
He brought judicial review proceedings against the Minister seeking various orders and reliefs after he was informed in mid-July that he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because he had been tutored at home by his mother .
Opposing the application , the Department of Education argued it was not possible to give Elijah a calculated grade for any of the nine subjects he has studied due to an absence of credible evidence from an appropriate source on which to base a grade .
This was because Martina Burke was in a position of direct conflict of interest and that accepting estimated marks from a family member would undermine the integrity and credibility of the process .
The State denied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he could sit the Leaving Cert in November .
The system had been brought in due to the global health emergency caused the Covid19 pandemic .
It was also argued that there was a lack of credible , independent evidence upon which Elijah , who did not sit the Junior Certificate Examination could be given a calculated grade .
The judgement was delivered by electronic means and final orders in the case will be mentioned before the Court at a later date .

A file image of home-schooled Co Mayo student Elijah Burke who on Wednesday won a significant High Court judgement against a decision by the Department of Education to exclude him from the calculated grades process. Photograph: Collins
A Leaving Cert student home-schooled by his mother has won his High Court challenge against the Minister for Education's decision to exclude him from the calculated grades process.
Elijah Burke had claimed the exclusion of students that were tutored by a parent or close relative at home from the calculated grades process breached his rights and was unfair and discriminatory and that he was being punished for being home schooled.
He claimed that as a result of the State’s decision he would not be able to progress to third level education for at least another year.
In a significant judgement delivered on Wednesday Mr Justice Charles Meenan held that so much of the calculated grade system that provides for the giving of estimated percentage marks that excludes home schooled students on the grounds that his teacher has a conflict of interest was "irrational, unreasonable and unlawful."
READ MORE
The judge said the Minister had refused to give Mr Burke a calculated grade for each of the nine subjects he has studied because he had been taught by his mother Martina Burke, who is a qualified teacher, which was deemed to be a conflict of interest.
The court, noted that a system was in place in schools to deal with scenarios where a Leaving Cert student has been taught by a parent or close relative.
“I am satisfied that a non-conflicted or independent teacher or teachers ought to be involved in the place of Elijah’s mother in the system for the award of the estimated mark in each of the teen’s Leaving Certificate subjects.”
Should it be possible to award the student marks the process set out in by Department of Education for the awarding of calculated grades out of school learners can operate for Elijah, the judge added.
The judge said his decision was not based on any achievements obtained by Elijah or his siblings. Such matters, he said, were irrelevant to his decision.
He said he based his decision on what the court believes are the correct legal principles, and the decision is applicable to all students who find themselves in the same situation, irrespective of the achievements of abilities.
During the hearing the court heard that approximately 10 other students were in the same situation as Elijah.
The judge said he was satisfied to quash the Minister’s refusal to provide Elijah with a calculated grade. The judge also said he was satisfied to make a declaration that that the refusal to provide Elijah with a calculated grade in circumstances where the teen had been home schooled by a parent, and thus had a conflict of interest, was arbitrary unfair unreasonable and contrary to law.
Elijah, represented by Paul O Higgins SC, Brendan Hennessy Bl instructed by solicitor Eileen McCabe has applied to do a degree in either Biomedical Sciences or History with Music at NUIG.
The 18-year-old from Cloonsunna, Castlebar, Co Mayo, is one of ten siblings who have all been educated at home by their mother who have all excelled academically.
Elijah claimed the Minister acted unlawfully in failing to have in place a process for receiving and determining applications for calculated grades for pupils who are home schooled by a relative.
He brought judicial review proceedings against the Minister seeking various orders and reliefs after he was informed in mid-July that he would not be considered for a calculated grade because he had been tutored at home by his mother.
Opposing the application, the Department of Education argued it was not possible to give Elijah a calculated grade for any of the nine subjects he has studied due to an absence of credible evidence from an appropriate source on which to base a grade.
This was because Martina Burke was in a position of direct conflict of interest and that accepting estimated marks from a family member would undermine the integrity and credibility of the process.
The State denied that his rights were breached and said that he could sit the Leaving Cert in November. The system had been brought in due to the global health emergency caused the Covid19 pandemic.
It was also argued that there was a lack of credible, independent evidence upon which Elijah, who did not sit the Junior Certificate Examination could be given a calculated grade.
The judgement was delivered by electronic means and final orders in the case will be mentioned before the Court at a later date.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Donnelly says legislation needed for new Garda Covid-19 powers

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has said primary legislation will be required for greater Garda enforcement powers to ensure the latest Covid-19 restrictions are adhered to .
Mr Donnelly said the Government will be looking for cooperation “ across the political spectrum ” to ensure the legislation is enacted .
“ The timing of that hasn ’ t been worked out but the message we ’ re sending out is this – while the vast majority of people are complying , which is why we ’ re still mid-table in Europe and not in a worse situation , we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small number of people essentially thumb their nose at everybody else , ” he told RTÉ ’ s Primetime on Tuesday night .
“ As quickly as we can we ’ re going to bring in enforcement powers and that does require primary legislation.
” The Dáil is due to return on September 15th while the latest restrictions are in place until September 13th .
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Government would draft new legislation to give gardaí the power to close down and sanction any premises that was clearly flouting public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said if gardaí had the power to close pubs down on the spot for breaching measures aimed at combating Covid19 it would act as a significant deterrent .
They also believed on the spot fines should be introduced .
“ It would mean ( gardaí ) would have the power to enforce all kinds of Covid-19 measures .
You could break up gatherings and sanction people at the same time and without having to start a criminal process , ” said one source .
However , several sources said introducing new measures to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it would involve entering a person ’ s home without a warrant .
The Irish Council for Civil Liberties ( ICCL ) said it does not support the reintroduction of expanded powers of enforcement for An Garda Síochána or the use of criminal penalties .
“ We reiterate our position that public health advice should be consent and education-based .
It should not be policed by coercion , ” it said .
“ We call on Government to communicate with and educate people on the appropriate response to the surge in cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The increase in new cases of Covid-19 over the past number of days is significant and we must all take the necessary steps to limit the spread of the virus .
It is however unfortunate that the latest guidance will disproportionately affect elderly and immuno-compromised people without addressing the issue of congregated settings where the virus can spread.
” The ICCL said there should be more transparency around how public health advice is given and how Government decisions are made .
“ The last months have shown that Government must prioritise at-risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It must also take steps to protect people living or working in crowded settings such as Direct Provision centres , factories and halting sites .
ICCL believes resources would be better directed in this direction , not in policing ordinary people , ” it added .

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has said primary legislation will be required for greater Garda enforcement powers to ensure the latest Covid-19 restrictions are adhered to.
Mr Donnelly said the Government will be looking for cooperation “across the political spectrum” to ensure the legislation is enacted.
"The timing of that hasn't been worked out but the message we're sending out is this – while the vast majority of people are complying, which is why we're still mid-table in Europe and not in a worse situation, we can't have a situation where a small number of people essentially thumb their nose at everybody else," he told RTÉ's Primetime on Tuesday night.
“As quickly as we can we’re going to bring in enforcement powers and that does require primary legislation.”
READ MORE
The Dáil is due to return on September 15th while the latest restrictions are in place until September 13th.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Government would draft new legislation to give gardaí the power to close down and sanction any premises that was clearly flouting public health guidelines.
A number of Garda sources said if gardaí had the power to close pubs down on the spot for breaching measures aimed at combating Covid19 it would act as a significant deterrent. They also believed on the spot fines should be introduced.
“It would mean (gardaí) would have the power to enforce all kinds of Covid-19 measures. You could break up gatherings and sanction people at the same time and without having to start a criminal process,” said one source.
However, several sources said introducing new measures to break up house parties was very complex as it would involve entering a person’s home without a warrant.
The Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) said it does not support the reintroduction of expanded powers of enforcement for An Garda Síochána or the use of criminal penalties.
“We reiterate our position that public health advice should be consent and education-based. It should not be policed by coercion,” it said.
“We call on Government to communicate with and educate people on the appropriate response to the surge in cases, rather than using coercion and force. The increase in new cases of Covid-19 over the past number of days is significant and we must all take the necessary steps to limit the spread of the virus. It is however unfortunate that the latest guidance will disproportionately affect elderly and immuno-compromised people without addressing the issue of congregated settings where the virus can spread.”
The ICCL said there should be more transparency around how public health advice is given and how Government decisions are made.
“The last months have shown that Government must prioritise at-risk people in care homes and nursing homes. It must also take steps to protect people living or working in crowded settings such as Direct Provision centres, factories and halting sites. ICCL believes resources would be better directed in this direction, not in policing ordinary people,” it added.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Coronavirus: Eamon Ryan admits there are contradictions in Government advice

Minister for Climate Action Eamon Ryan has acknowledged that are contradictions in the Government ’ s new Covid-19 restrictions .
The Green Party leader said he could see the contradiction in the advice that only six people can gather indoors , but that schools could have indoor classes of 20-30 pupils and 50 people could attend a wedding .
The Government on Tuesday night announced new restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus after public health experts warned the Government of multiple and significant outbreaks associated with households , workplaces and social activities .
People have been asked to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September 13th , while the number of people permitted to attend both indoor and outdoor events have been slashed .
Under the tightened restrictions , all visits to homes will be limited to six people indoors and outdoors .
Sport events and matches will once again be behind closed doors while people over 70 and those who are medically vulnerable are to be asked to limit their interactions to a “ very small network ” for short periods .
“ All of this is about risk assessment , ” Mr Ryan said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show that the Government ’ s view was that the reopening of schools was essential .
It was not viable to lock down society , for everyone to stay home and never go out again , he said .
Mr Ryan acknowledged problems with Covid-19 testing and tracing , particuarly with how long the process takes .
He said the system had been caught off guard and the fault for that lay with “ the entire political system ” .
This was not good enough , he admitted .
He called for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meat industry following several outbreaks in meat plants .
The investigation should be done to ensure that all plants have occupational health systems in place , he said .
The Government had already indicated that it was committed to changing the direct provision system , he added .
Also on Tuesday , the chairman of the National Public Health Emergency Team ( NPHET ) Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said the public had stopped being as careful as they were earlier in the pandemic .
Professor Philip Nolan told RTÉ radio ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and firmly now to prevent further transmission from households into communities , we will see case numbers rising to numbers that are unsustainable.
” People had “ relaxed a little ” and the concern was that the virus was “ like fire in a tinder box , ” he said .
He also admitted there were weaknesses with the test and trace system “ but the department is working on that ” .
Public health specialist professor Ruairí Brugha said the HSE is using an antiquated system for tracking Covid-19 cases which fails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A system that identifies where cases are happening so that they can be targeted is needed , he said .
Not knowing where exactly transmissions are taking place is a “ major problem , ” he added .
Prof Nolan said that the core message remained the same – the public should avoid congregating , should practice hand hygiene and observe social distancing rules .
“ We are at this critical juncture .
”

The Government on Tuesday announced new restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus after public health experts warned the Government of multiple and significant outbreaks associated with households, workplaces and social activities. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
There have been a further 54 cases of coronavirus confirmed in the State and two further deaths, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) has said.
Of the additional cases, eight have been confirmed as a result of community transmission, while 27 are linked to outbreaks or were close contacts of confirmed cases.
Of the additional cases, eight have been confirmed as a result of community transmission, while 27 are linked to outbreaks or were close contacts of confirmed cases.
The number of #COVID19 cases that we have now in Ireland is substantially more than we were seeing even just a few weeks ago.
On average over the past 5 days we have reported 96 new cases. Our 14 day incidence now stands at over 23 per 100,000. 1/12 pic.twitter.com/480rLpJFGy — Dr Ronan Glynn (@ronan_glynn) August 19, 2020
Twenty-four of the cases were men, and 29 were women. Some 67 per cent were among people under 45 years of age.
READ MORE
This brings the total number of Covid-19 related fatalities to 1,775, and 27,547 confirmed cases to date. Two previous deaths linked to coronavirus have been denotified from the overall figures, as well as six cases.
The increase in 54 cases follows 190 additional cases reported on Tuesday.
Dublin accounted for the highest number of new cases on Wednesday, with 19 of the 54. This was followed by Kildare with eight cases, five in Tipperary, and the remaining new cases spread across 13 counties.
Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn said people had to reduce the number of others they met over the next three weeks to suppress the virus.
In a video shared on Twitter, Dr Glynn said outbreaks in food processing plants, construction sites, and direct provision centres accounted for around 500 of the over 1,200 cases in the last two weeks.
“But of more concern to our public health doctors on the ground have been the number of contacts that have had to be followed up as a consequence of intermingling of different households, as a result of socialisation around sporting activity, house parties, other social engagements and car sharing,” he said.
People have been asked to work from home and avoid public transport until September 13th, while the number of people permitted to attend both indoor and outdoor events have been slashed. Under the tightened restrictions, all visits to homes will be limited to six people indoors and outdoors.
Sport events and matches will once again be behind closed doors while people over 70 and those who are medically vulnerable are to be asked to limit their interactions to a “very small network” for short periods.
Dr Glynn said he was aware there had been “a lot of talk and commentary” around the new measures.
He said he knew the measures seemed “unfair” for a nation that enjoyed socialising and sport. “I know that what is being asked is difficult, especially when people have already given so much over the past six months,” he said.
A further eight workers tested positive for coronavirus at O’Brien Fine Foods plant in Co Kildare, which has been the subject of a serious outbreak.
In a statement on Wednesday the company said from further testing of 177 employees, 169 had tested negative, and eight positive.
Northern Ireland’s Department of Health reported 34 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, bringing the total number of people who have tested positive for the virus in the North to 6,505.
Over the last seven days, 294 cases have been identified. No further fatalities were reported. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths recorded by the department remains at 559.
Assistant Secretary to the Department of An Taoiseach Liz Canavan during a media briefing earlier this month. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
Schools
Earlier on Wednesday, a top Government official said that the decision to tighten restrictions and limit social interactions was taken to protect the reopening of schools.
Assistant secretary general at the Department of Taoiseach Liz Canavan said confirmed cases of Covid-19 have increased from a low of 61 cases a week to 533 cases last week.
The Government on Tuesday night announced new restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus after public health experts warned the Government of multiple and significant outbreaks associated with households, workplaces and social activities.
People have been asked to work from home and avoid public transport until September 13th, while the number of people permitted to attend both indoor and outdoor events have been slashed. Under the tightened restrictions, all visits to homes will be limited to six people indoors and outdoors.
Sport events and matches will once again be behind closed doors while people over 70 and those who are medically vulnerable are to be asked to limit their interactions to a “very small network” for short periods.
“The 14 day cumulative cases per hundred thousand of the population is now at 26. Thankfully, so far, the increase in cases has not been matched by any significant increase in our hospitals or an increase in the numbers dying from the disease,” she said.
“However, if we allow the continued rising cases to go unchecked and to become widespread within our communities, we risk seeing increased danger to the most vulnerable in our community. We also risk seeing that increased demand on our hospitals and on those frontline health care workers who have done so much to protect us and our loved ones while all the time risking their own health. We risk undoing the progress we have made towards reopening schools and resuming health care. We therefore risk having to introduce even more restrictive measures.”
Act now
“That is why Government has decided to act now, to act before that happens, to protect the most vulnerable in our communities and to ensure we can safely reopen our schools next week.”
Ms Canavan said the reopening of schools is an “absolute priority” for both the National Public Health Emergency Team and the Government. “These measures are being introduced to protect that reopening. The measures are being put in place across the country, until the 13th of September, in an effort to stop the virus by limiting congregation and social interaction among households.”
She added: “This is because these are the places and settings where we have seen clusters emerge. We know about workplace clusters. However, these other places are now also seeing clusters, and they have been occurring, all over the country.”
Ms Canavan said that the new measures are not being introduced to punish any particular group or to target any particular sector “but to balance the need to remain as open as we can in society and business with ensuring this increase in cases does not spread in an uncontrolled way in the community”.
She said the measures were aimed at impromptu but normal gatherings. “That is why we’re limiting the numbers congregating in houses and gardens. It’s why we’re saying that sporting fixtures should temporarily take place behind closed doors.”
“This is not about stopping these organized activities. It is about introducing temporary restrictions now so that we ensure we don’t have to stop these activities all together.”
In terms of restaurants, Ms Canavan reiterated the new closing time of 11:30pm and said there should be a maximum of six in a group seated at a table and “no formal or informal events or parties should be organised in these premises.”
She said sporting events and matches can continue to take place but behind closed doors and with strict adherence to the two metre physical distancing before and after the event while team huddles should be avoided.
In terms of school transport she said arrangements will proceed as planned for the reopening of schools and that these arrangements were different to those on normal public transport.
Assigned seats
“These arrangements are different to general public transport. The plans in place already have additional mitigations such as assigned seats with seating managed so that children of the same household sit together or children from the same class sit together.”
As part of the Government’s new guidance, those over 70 or those who are medically vulnerable are being asked to restrict their movements.
“People in this group can of course still meet with friends and get outside for exercise. That’s as important as it is for anyone. However, the advice is to reduce your risk you need to reduce your contacts. That means, for example, avoiding public transport, shopping during designated hours . . . and generally limiting your contacts to a smaller circle,” Ms Canavan said.
Earlier, Minister for Climate Action Eamon Ryan acknowledged that are contradictions in the Government’s new Covid-19 restrictions.
The Green Party leader said he could see the contradiction in the advice that only six people can gather indoors, but that schools could have indoor classes of 20-30 pupils and 50 people could attend a wedding.
Mr Ryan acknowledged problems with Covid-19 testing and tracing, particularly with how long the process takes. He said the system had been caught off guard and the fault for that lay with “the entire political system”. This was not good enough, he admitted.
He called for a “root and branch” investigation into the meat industry following several outbreaks in meat plants. The investigation should be done to ensure that all plants have occupational health systems in place, he said.
The Government had already indicated that it was committed to changing the direct provision system, he added.
Also on Tuesday, the chairman of the PHET Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said the public had stopped being as careful as they were earlier in the pandemic.
Professor Philip Nolan told RTÉ radio's Morning Ireland "unless we move quickly and firmly now to prevent further transmission from households into communities, we will see case numbers rising to numbers that are unsustainable."
People had “relaxed a little” and the concern was that the virus was “like fire in a tinder box,” he said.
He also admitted there were weaknesses with the test and trace system “but the department is working on that”.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Covid restrictions Q&A: the reasons, the detail and the confusion

A series of new measures came into force on Tuesday in a bid to curb a recent spike in coronavirus cases .
Here we examine the reasons for the measures and look at a number of areas where there is confusion or conflicting advice .
More measures have been announced to stop the spread of Covid-19 .
Why ?
Cases of the virus are rising again .
We are now seeing multiple clusters of the virus throughout the country in homes , in workplaces and in a number of other social settings .
A total of 200 new cases were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total since May , and a further 190 cases were confirmed on Tuesday .
The rate of growth in new infections in the State over the past two weeks is the fourth highest in Europe .
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said : “ we have been successful in keeping the number of deaths low , but if the current increase continues it will be impossible to stop the spread of the virus to our most vulnerable and our most compromised.
” A range of new public health measures were announced on Tuesday and came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matches revert to behind-closed-doors with no spectators allowed .
Indoor training in places such as gyms should be limited to six people , and outdoor training should be limited to 15 people .
Employers should continue to allow remote working where possible ; public transport should be avoided where possible ; and if travelling in a car or other vehicle with someone from outside your household it is recommended you wear a face covering .
If you are having visitors to your home , you should limit them to six from no more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be limited to 15 people .
Again social distancing should be observed .
So contact sport is allowed , just no spectators ?
Yes .
Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn said there had not been significant issues arising out of sport per se .
The measures were not aimed at stopping sport as long as it continued with the protective measures already in place .
“ It is what has been happening before and after matches , its households congregating , travelling together ” , he said .
While teammates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than 200 people or 250 people ” .
There was no situation without risk however , he added .
What about restaurants and cafes ?
Earlier this month the Government announced a closing time of 11pm for restaurants and cafes .
Now it says restaurants and cafes , including pubs that are currently acting as restaurants , can remain open and now with a mandatory closing time of 11.30pm .
So they get to open for an extra half hour .
NPHET wanted a closing time of 10.30pm .
No change here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains at 50 “ until a further decision is made ” .
This is an area where the Cabinet decided not to heed NPHET advice .
A footnote to Dr Glynn ’ s advice says the changes to indoor gathering should apply to weddings and from August 24th .
The Government instead decided to leave the 50-person limit and review the situation .
What is the story with further restrictions for over 70s .
Anyone over 70 or those who are “ extremely medically vulnerable ” are asked to keep the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When they do meet others they should meet for as short a time as possible and observe two-metre social distancing .
They should also avoid public transport where possible and shop during designated hours .
So it is not a return to cocooning ?
No , although there is confusion over whether over-70s can proceed with planned holidays .
Mr Martin said people need to use their judgment but Dr Glynn later said he would not be advising this age group to go to a hotel .
Do we now have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where possible .
How long will these new measures last ?
They will remain in place for three-and-a-half weeks , until September 13th .
What ?
Does that mean schools can ’ t reopen ?
The Government has said its priority is still to get schools open at the end of this month .
Arrangements for school transport will proceed as planned .
What about the lockdown in the midlands ?
The restrictions imposed in Kildare , Laois and Offaly were put in place for two weeks and are due to come to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But Dr Glynn said the incidence of disease in these counties remains “ worrying high ” , and this will be considered by the National Public Health Emergency Team on Thursday .
He stressed there were now a large number of counties with rising incidence of the disease but no other counties at this stage in the same situation as Kildare , Laois and Offaly .
“ And hopefully the measures recommended today will arrest the increase in those counties across the country ” .
Is there any chance at all so-called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon ?
The Taoiseach said this issue would be reconsidered at the end of August .
How will the new measures be enforced ?
The Ministers for Health and Justice , along with the Attorney General , are considering the introduction of legislation to give additional powers to “ the gardaí and agencies ” to enforce the public health measures .
The aim is to have “ immediate sanctions ” for breaches .
So can gardaí break up house parties ?
The measures propose new powers for gardaí to enforce the restrictions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also house parties , but these powers will require legislation , and the Dáil is not due to sit until mid September .
There are also concerns among civil liberties groups about giving gardaí the power to enter a private residence without a warrant .
Is it an over-reaction ?
Those who ask this should remember that 2,332 people have lost their lives on the island of Ireland and many thousands more had been seriously ill , the Taoiseach said .
“ We are absolutely not at a stage where we can return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to act as if the virus is present wherever we are and to act accordingly .
We are at another critical moment .
If we want to limit the number of people who get seriously ill or die because of the virus we need to follow these public health measures .
“ We can ’ t go back , if we falter now every sacrifice we have made to date will be for naught .
We have to accept that we have to recommit ourselves to accepting the reality of the continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
How have the changes gone down ?
There has been a mixed response with some suggesting the new measures are confusing – indoor gatherings limited to six , but weddings can have 50 guests , and restaurants and gastro pubs will remain open until 11.30pm .
People are encouraged not to use public transport , but how will children travel to school ?
As questions linger so too does the threat of the virus .

Under the new restrictions people are being asked to avoid public transport where possible. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
A series of new measures came into force on Tuesday in a bid to curb a recent spike in coronavirus cases. Here we examine the reasons for the measures and look at a number of areas where there is confusion or conflicting advice.
More measures have been announced to stop the spread of Covid-19. Why?
Cases of the virus are rising again. We are now seeing multiple clusters of the virus throughout the country in homes, in workplaces and in a number of other social settings.
A total of 200 new cases were reported on Saturday, the highest daily total since May, and a further 190 cases were confirmed on Tuesday. The rate of growth in new infections in the State over the past two weeks is the fourth highest in Europe.
READ MORE
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “we have been successful in keeping the number of deaths low, but if the current increase continues it will be impossible to stop the spread of the virus to our most vulnerable and our most compromised.”
So what’s changing?
A range of new public health measures were announced on Tuesday and came into effect immediately.
Sports events and matches revert to behind-closed-doors with no spectators allowed. Indoor training in places such as gyms should be limited to six people, and outdoor training should be limited to 15 people.
Employers should continue to allow remote working where possible; public transport should be avoided where possible; and if travelling in a car or other vehicle with someone from outside your household it is recommended you wear a face covering.
If you are having visitors to your home, you should limit them to six from no more than three households. Outdoor gatherings are to be limited to 15 people. Again social distancing should be observed.
So contact sport is allowed, just no spectators?
Yes. Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn said there had not been significant issues arising out of sport per se. The measures were not aimed at stopping sport as long as it continued with the protective measures already in place. “It is what has been happening before and after matches, its households congregating, travelling together”, he said. While teammates come together “that was 30 people rather than 200 people or 250 people”. There was no situation without risk however, he added.
What about restaurants and cafes?
Earlier this month the Government announced a closing time of 11pm for restaurants and cafes. Now it says restaurants and cafes, including pubs that are currently acting as restaurants, can remain open and now with a mandatory closing time of 11.30pm. So they get to open for an extra half hour. NPHET wanted a closing time of 10.30pm.
And weddings?
No change here. The limit on attendance at weddings remains at 50 “until a further decision is made”. This is an area where the Cabinet decided not to heed NPHET advice. A footnote to Dr Glynn’s advice says the changes to indoor gathering should apply to weddings and from August 24th. The Government instead decided to leave the 50-person limit and review the situation.
What is the story with further restrictions for over 70s.
Anyone over 70 or those who are “extremely medically vulnerable” are asked to keep the number of people they meet as low as possible. When they do meet others they should meet for as short a time as possible and observe two-metre social distancing. They should also avoid public transport where possible and shop during designated hours.
So it is not a return to cocooning?
No, although there is confusion over whether over-70s can proceed with planned holidays. Mr Martin said people need to use their judgment but Dr Glynn later said he would not be advising this age group to go to a hotel.
Do we now have to avoid using public transport?
Yes, where possible.
How long will these new measures last?
They will remain in place for three-and-a-half weeks, until September 13th.
What? Does that mean schools can’t reopen?
The Government has said its priority is still to get schools open at the end of this month. Arrangements for school transport will proceed as planned.
What about the lockdown in the midlands?
The restrictions imposed in Kildare, Laois and Offaly were put in place for two weeks and are due to come to an end this coming weekend August 23rd.
But Dr Glynn said the incidence of disease in these counties remains “worrying high”, and this will be considered by the National Public Health Emergency Team on Thursday.
He stressed there were now a large number of counties with rising incidence of the disease but no other counties at this stage in the same situation as Kildare, Laois and Offaly.
“And hopefully the measures recommended today will arrest the increase in those counties across the country”.
Is there any chance at all so-called wet pubs will be able to open soon?
The Taoiseach said this issue would be reconsidered at the end of August.
How will the new measures be enforced?
The Ministers for Health and Justice, along with the Attorney General, are considering the introduction of legislation to give additional powers to “the gardaí and agencies” to enforce the public health measures. The aim is to have “immediate sanctions” for breaches.
So can gardaí break up house parties?
The measures propose new powers for gardaí to enforce the restrictions, in cafes, restaurants and pubs and also house parties, but these powers will require legislation, and the Dáil is not due to sit until mid September. There are also concerns among civil liberties groups about giving gardaí the power to enter a private residence without a warrant.
Is it an over-reaction?
Those who ask this should remember that 2,332 people have lost their lives on the island of Ireland and many thousands more had been seriously ill, the Taoiseach said.
“We are absolutely not at a stage where we can return to normality. Individually and together we have to act as if the virus is present wherever we are and to act accordingly. We are at another critical moment. If we want to limit the number of people who get seriously ill or die because of the virus we need to follow these public health measures.
“We can’t go back, if we falter now every sacrifice we have made to date will be for naught. We have to accept that we have to recommit ourselves to accepting the reality of the continued threat of this virus,” he said.
How have the changes gone down?
There has been a mixed response with some suggesting the new measures are confusing – indoor gatherings limited to six, but weddings can have 50 guests, and restaurants and gastro pubs will remain open until 11.30pm.
People are encouraged not to use public transport, but how will children travel to school? As questions linger so too does the threat of the virus.


theirishtimes--2020-08-19--Leaving Cert students must wait a week after results day to see teachers’ estimates

Leaving Cert students will have to wait a week after receiving their official calculated grades before they get to see their teachers ’ estimated marks , the Department of Education has confirmed .
This means thousands of students will not immediately get to see the extent to which their grades have been adjusted by standardisation measures which have proved highly controversial in the United Kingdom .
There was uproar among UK students over recent days after it emerged that almost 40 per cent of results were downgraded by an algorithm .
Northern Ireland , England , Scotland and Wales have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rely solely on teachers ’ estimated grades .
In response to queries from the The Irish Times , the department said all Leaving Cert students will get to see their school ’ s estimated mark in each subject and their class ranking on September 14th – one week after their calculated grades are released on September 7th .
However , the Irish Second Level Students ’ Union said all information relating to students ’ grades should be made available to Leaving Cert candidates as quickly as possible in the interests of fairness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have enough time to fully evaluate their position and for college applicants to decide if they want to accept their first round CAO offer , ” said ISSU president Reuben Murray .
“ The deadline for students to accept round one CAO offers [ September 16th ] is just two days after they get to see their school ’ s estimated grade – that is a very short period of time.
” In the UK , most students had access to their calculated grades and teachers ’ estimated grades on the same day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to which their grades were adjusted .
A department spokeswoman said the appeals system for students will open on September 14th and all students will have access to their estimated grades and class ranking submitted by their school on this date .
Minister for Education Norma Foley has said her department will not publish its standardisation formula until after the process is completed .
However , her officials say the Irish system differs from the UK by giving a greater weighting to percentage marks issued by schools .
Department guidance documents state that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many cases .
“ We expect that many estimated marks may change , to at least some degree .
Although some will change more than others depending on the quality of the data we receive from schools , ” the documents state .
They add that the rank ordering of students by the school in their class grouping will be retained in the process , so students will keep their position relative to each other .
Last June , teachers were asked to provide an estimated percentage mark for each Leaving Cert student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put in a rank order in their class .
Schools were also asked to align this data before it was signed off and passed on to the department , where it has gone through a standardisation process .
The process is aimed at ensuring schools have not been too harsh or too lenient when giving estimated scores for students , and to ensure they are broadly in line with results from previous years , according to the department .

Leaving Cert students will have to wait a week after receiving their official calculated grades before they get to see their teachers’ estimated marks. Photograph: Eric Luke
Leaving Cert students will have to wait a week after receiving their official calculated grades before they get to see their teachers’ estimated marks, the Department of Education has confirmed.
This means thousands of students will not immediately get to see the extent to which their grades have been adjusted by standardisation measures which have proved highly controversial in the United Kingdom.
There was uproar among UK students over recent days after it emerged that almost 40 per cent of results were downgraded by an algorithm.
Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales have since abandoned this standardisation process and opted to rely solely on teachers' estimated grades.
READ MORE
In response to queries from the The Irish Times, the department said all Leaving Cert students will get to see their school’s estimated mark in each subject and their class ranking on September 14th – one week after their calculated grades are released on September 7th.
Fairness
However, the Irish Second Level Students’ Union said all information relating to students’ grades should be made available to Leaving Cert candidates as quickly as possible in the interests of fairness.
"We want to ensure students have enough time to fully evaluate their position and for college applicants to decide if they want to accept their first round CAO offer," said ISSU president Reuben Murray.
“The deadline for students to accept round one CAO offers [September 16th] is just two days after they get to see their school’s estimated grade – that is a very short period of time.”
In the UK, most students had access to their calculated grades and teachers’ estimated grades on the same day and were able to see the extent to which their grades were adjusted.
A department spokeswoman said the appeals system for students will open on September 14th and all students will have access to their estimated grades and class ranking submitted by their school on this date.
Minister for Education Norma Foley has said her department will not publish its standardisation formula until after the process is completed.
However, her officials say the Irish system differs from the UK by giving a greater weighting to percentage marks issued by schools.
Adjusted
Department guidance documents state that grades are likely to be adjusted in many cases.
“We expect that many estimated marks may change, to at least some degree. Although some will change more than others depending on the quality of the data we receive from schools,” the documents state.
They add that the rank ordering of students by the school in their class grouping will be retained in the process, so students will keep their position relative to each other.
Last June, teachers were asked to provide an estimated percentage mark for each Leaving Cert student for each subject. Students were also put in a rank order in their class.
Schools were also asked to align this data before it was signed off and passed on to the department, where it has gone through a standardisation process.
The process is aimed at ensuring schools have not been too harsh or too lenient when giving estimated scores for students, and to ensure they are broadly in line with results from previous years, according to the department.