News

Speaking today at the Social Democrats’ online National Conference, Gary Gannon TD said: “This weekend marks the first anniversary since the first case of Covid-19 was confirmed. Over the past 12 months, our daily news and our personal lives have become entirely dominated by the virus. “While all of us are looking forward to the […]

Commenting on the Government’s confirmation of arrangements for this year’s Leaving Certificate examinations, Social Democrats spokesperson for Education, Gary Gannon TD, said: “The Government has failed this cohort of Leaving Certificate students who have endured high levels of stress and anxiety due to all the uncertainty surrounding this year’s exams. I welcome that the Minister […]

Amid expectations that the Cabinet will sign off on a dual approach to the Leaving Certificate this week, Social Democrats Education spokesperson Gary Gannon TD has called for clarity, communication and contingency for any assessment plans. Commenting today, Deputy Gannon said: “Leaving Certificate students have made their voices heard in terms of what they want […]

Social Democrats spokesperson for Education, Gary Gannon TD, has called on the Government to immediately set up a taskforce dedicated to dealing with the trauma faced by young people due to Covid-19. Deputy Gannon stated: “The effects of Covid-19 are insidious and could have longstanding consequences for our young people into the future if we […]

Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon has called for the new phase of planning for the State examinations to be expedited to end the ongoing uncertainty for Leaving Certificate students. Minister Foley today confirmed that a new phase of planning would include both the provision of Leaving Certificate examinations while also exploring a corresponding non-examination process. […]

Tá sé fógartha ag na Daonlathaithe Sóisialta nach cuimsitheach ná cumhachtach go leor é Bille na dTeangacha Oifigiúla, in ainneoin na 300 leasuithe a bhí molta ag lucht an fhreasúra nuige seo, agus céad leasú astu diúltaithe. “Tá pobail áirithe na Gaeilge timpeall na tíre seo, idir muintir na Gaeltachta go cainteoirí agus teaghlaigh lán-Ghaeilge, […]

Reacting to today’s Government announcement on the extension of Level 5 restrictions, Gary Gannon TD, Social Democrats spokesperson for Education, said: “Vague promises to reopen schools as early as possible will be of little comfort to parents and students. In the absence of an agreement with all stakeholders, the Government’s stated intention to prioritise the […]

Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon has said we should mark International Day of Education today by reflecting on the vital role that our schools play in society. Deputy Gannon, who is the party’s spokesperson for Education, said: “Covid-19 has made it clear that our schools and school community provide more than just places to learn […]

Speaking in the Dáil this evening, Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon called on the Minister for Education to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions over the reopening of schools for children with additional needs and continue to seek a pathway to a solution with all stakeholders. Deputy Gannon, who is the party’s spokesperson for Education, […]

Responding to remarks today from the Taoiseach that the Leaving Certificate needs to be reformed, Social Democrats spokesperson for Education, Gary Gannon TD, commented: “The needs of the 2021 students must be the impetus for lasting change when it comes to the Leaving Certificate examinations. “The Department of Education needs to hear the calls from […]