Solas must account for exam cheating – O’Connell

Representatives from Solas should appear before the Oireachtas Committee for Further and higher Education to discuss reports examination papers were being sold in advance of certification exams, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Leas-Cathaoirleach of the Committee, Deputy Maeve O’Connell said, “It is deeply concerning to read media reports that official examination papers have been sold in advance of exams. Over many years in the third-level sector, I have met a huge number of hard-working apprentices, who are committed to their trades.

“However, reports of cheating unfairly throw doubts on a sector which is vital for the future of Irish home construction,” Deputy O’Connell said.

Deputy O’Connell welcomed Higher Education Minister James Lawless’ initiative in widening the commissioned review across the entire sector, to ensure Ireland can continue to guarantee the quality of qualifications.

“Ireland has the potential to be a global leader in Further and Higher Education, which is exactly why any instances that brings the integrity of our qualifications or our institutions into question must be dealt with immediately,” concluded Deputy O’Connell.