Minister launches probe into examination grades

The Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe has launched two investigations into grade inflation at second level and third level, amid concerns about falling standards.

The Higher Education Authority and the State Examinations Commission are reviewing the number of first-class degrees awarded at IT's and Universities, as well as grades in Leaving Cert higher level exams.

Figures show that the pecentage of first class honour degrees being awarded in our unversities has almost trebled since the mid 90's.

While the number of students getting all A's in their Leaving Cert is up 500%.

And there is now concern among some of Ireland's leading industrialists about possible decline in academic standards.

It follows a series of meetings between the Mr O' Keefe and representatives from some of the world's leading multi-nationals, including Google and Intel.

They are concerned that, although on paper students are achieving the grades, there has been a decline in the quality of some graduates and Leaving Cert students.

The Education Minister has ordered two reviews to be carried out - they'll look back on Leaving Cert results from as far back as 1992 and at grades at Universties and IT's dating back to 1991.

The group, which will be chaired by economist Dr Colin Hunt, is expected to present it's report in the summer.