Minister McEntee must pause and change tack on accelerated Senior Cycle reform – Darren O’Rourke TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has called on Minister Helen McEntee to pause her rushed rollout of Senior Cycle reform and for the Taoiseach to intervene

The Meath East TD was speaking in the Dáil today after the Minister doubled down on her decision despite widespread opposition.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“Last night in the Dáil, the Minister announced that she is pushing ahead with the accelerated rollout of Senior Cycle reform, ignoring the serious concerns of teachers, school leaders, and trade unions. This is a grave mistake, and I am urging the Taoiseach to step in before this escalates further. 

“The reality is that key concerns raised by educators cannot be resolved in time for a September implementation.  

“Teachers have been left in the dark, their expertise dismissed, and their warnings ignored.  They have clearly outlined the resources and time needed for a successful rollout – including teacher training, curriculum refinement, infrastructure readiness, and support for students with special educational needs – yet the Minister is ploughing ahead regardless.  

“This is before considering the complex and era-defining issue of Artificial Intelligence.

“This approach is reckless and will only lead to chaos in our schools. The people who will suffer most are students, who deserve a system that is properly planned and resourced.

“The Minister’s stubborn refusal to pause and engage meaningfully with stakeholders is a recipe for disaster. I am calling on her to halt this accelerated timeline and for the Taoiseach to intervene before it’s too late.”