Minister Richard Bruton says pressure should be taken off Leaving Cert students, after Samaritans report taking 2,266 calls the day before the leaving cert results were released in 2018. Their busiest day was August 16th 2018, the day after Leaving Cert results were released.
This has come to light after the Samaritans have launched their new phone deal, which will see another five years of free-phone calls from any network during anytime. The charity have announced they will be working alongside BT Ireland, eir, Sky Ireland, Three Ireland, Virgin Media Ireland and Vodafone Ireland to continue assisting until 2024.
Communications Minister and former Education Minister, Richard Bruton said;
"There's a review of the Leaving Cert being undertaken by the Curriculum and Assessment Board."
"We can look back on the Junior Cycle which has introduced more broad-based assessment and less emphasis on the final exam, so hopefully that's something that will be possible in the Leaving Certificate as well."
Mr. Bruton has committed to preparing legislation for an online safety commissioner that will specifically target cyber-bullying, which has been a serious problem among young people in recent times.
Bruton said, "the time for self-regulation by companies has now passed."
Teresa Bell, deputy regional director for the Samaritans Ireland, said the new deal that will give them another five years of free-phone calls nationwide is a wonderful endorsement for a very needed organisation.
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From receiving around 1,000 calls when the charity first started, to answering three million calls in the last five years, The Samaritans have become an important part of our community.
The Leaving Cert can be a very stressful time for many young people. They are concerned about getting the points they need, starting a new life, moving from home, and meeting new people. Having The Samaritans there as a listening ear is very important for some people who may feel they have no one else to talk to.
"But it's great that young people thinking about their future call Samaritans, along with parents, to discuss these concerns." said Ms.Bell.
If you are affected by any issues raised in this article, or need someone to talk to, free-phone 116 123 to contact Samaritans Ireland.
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