The Department of Education has begun implementing its plan for 5,400 extra high technology places in third-level colleges. The £75 million investment plan, announced by the Minister for Education, Mr Martin, in April, aims to have 2,400 extra technical places and 3,000 further degree places in the university and institute of technology sectors.
A department spokesman confirmed that a significant number would come on stream this year, including 750 in science, engineering and technology courses in the universities, and 1,500 in institutes of technology. In addition there would be an extra 250 places in colleges of education and 1,000 places on post-leaving certificate courses, mostly in tele-services and call centres for computer software.
A separate report on further education is being considered by the Minister, and is expected to be published shortly. It was drawn up by a committee, chaired by Dr Donal de Buitleir, which looked at a wide range of third-level education issues.
Both universities and institutes of technology will benefit from increased funding for these places, aimed predominantly for the engineering, as well as computer hardware and software areas.
As students wait to see if they will get high technology and other offers from the Central Applications office, stories of high achievers in the Leaving Certificate continue to emerge. The Salesian Convent in Limerick had three good results from one family. 18-year-old triplets Hilary, Emma and Olivia Parkinson, of Shelbourne Road, scored 1,495 points between them in the Leaving Certificate results.
Top score of 545 points was achieved by Hilary, who, with Olivia, plans a teaching career, while Emma has opted to do Business Studies and German at the University of Limerick.
"It will be strange for us, as it will be the first time since primary school that we will not be sitting in the same classroom; moreover, we are very close together," said Hilary. Sister Bridget O'Connell, principal of the school, said: "They are very bright and lovely girls and we knew they would do well." Top points scorer at the school was Nuala Broderick (17) from Meelick, Co Clare, who achieved six As and 570 points.
For those feeling overwhelmed by what faces them now that the results are out, the Samaritans continue to operate a new website to help students deal with stress. The site Coping With Exam Results explores the symptoms of stress, fear and self-doubt that young people may feel, as well as highlighting ways of coping.
Mr Paul O'Hehir, regional officer for the organisation, said people checking the website would be encouraged to call the Samaritans. They can be phoned at 1850 60 9090, and the new site is at www.samaritans.org.