The decision to reintroduce state exam fees, which would heap further pressure on families already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, must be reversed, according to Social Democrats education spokesperson Jen Cummins.
Deputy Cummins said:
“The decision to bring back fees for students sitting the Junior and Leaving certificates sends the wrong signal to families who are already facing rising costs across all aspects of daily life.
“From soaring rents and mortgages to energy bills, food prices and back-to-school costs, families are already being squeezed from every direction. Reintroducing exam fees at this moment is completely out of touch with the reality many households are living in.
“The waiver of the fees in recent years proved that the State can ensure access to exams without placing additional financial burdens on parents – the sky did not fall in when families were spared this extra cost.
“While some students will qualify for exemptions, many families who are just above the eligibility thresholds will still struggle to cover the additional expense – this move represents a significant step backwards.
“There are already thousands of families who do not qualify for a medical card but are still finding it incredibly difficult to make ends meet; these are the households who will once again be forced to absorb yet another bill by this change.
“The decision also risks undermining the principle that education should be accessible to every student, regardless of their financial circumstances. No student should feel that sitting their exams comes with a price tag their family can barely afford.
“The government must reverse this decision and commit to permanently removing State examination fees.
“At a time when the government repeatedly acknowledges the pressure families are under, it makes absolutely no sense to reintroduce this charge. Education should be truly free.”
March 11th, 2026