Testing times for Minister

Fionnán Sheahan, Political Reporter KEEP calm. It's not the end of the world if you didn't do well. No doubt many of the Class of 2002 had put that advice to the back of their minds last night as they guzzled down their 15th Smirnoff Ice, whether drowning their sorrows or celebrating their success.

But though the latest Leaving Certs off the production line will be taking a break from exams for a while, tough tests remain for those making decisions on the future of the education system.

Teachers' pay remains a big sticking point and not even the relatively healthy awards recommended under benchmarking for the profession will quell the hostilities.