New Exam Accommodations and Policy Updates Announced by Irish Cabinet
Government introduces bereavement flexibility for students and updates on housing, climate, and trade.
1Expanded Exam Support Measures
Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton is introducing new measures to the Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examinations scheme for 2027. These updates aim to remove barriers for students with disabilities or medical conditions. The initiative maintains academic standards while ensuring that all candidates have equitable access to the state examination process.
2Bereavement and Timekeeping Assistance
New supports include dedicated timekeeping guidance to help students manage their exam pace effectively. Additionally, students experiencing the loss of an immediate family member will gain greater flexibility. This includes access to a deferred examinations scheme, allowing affected students to sit specially developed papers at a later date than originally scheduled.
3Visual Impairment Pilot Program
The government is launching a pilot program for modified large-print exam papers. This initiative targets specific subjects within the Junior and Leaving Certificate curricula to assist students with visual impairments. By providing these specialized materials, the Department of Education seeks to improve accessibility and inclusivity during the high-stakes state examination period.
4Housing Support Growth Trends
Minister for Housing James Browne reported a 57 percent increase in starter home supports during the first half of 2026. Nearly 4,700 supports were delivered, covering purchase schemes, cost rental homes, and vacant property refurbishment grants. This data reflects a significant rise in government assistance compared to the same period in 2025.
5Consumer Protection and AI Regulation
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is developing a strategy for 2027 to 2029. Key priorities include imposing higher fines for consumer law breaches and implementing measures to combat artificial intelligence scams. The plan specifically targets misleading bots, aiming to protect consumers from emerging digital threats in the evolving technological landscape.
6International Trade and Agriculture
Taoiseach Micheál Martin will lead a Team Ireland trade mission to India to strengthen economic engagement with the world's sixth-largest economy. Simultaneously, Minister Martin Heydon is negotiating the next EU Common Agricultural Policy. A partial general agreement has been reached, focusing on generational renewal and specific provisions for young farmers across Europe.
7Childcare Workforce Qualification Progress
Minister for Children Norma Foley provided an update on the Nurturing Skills workforce plan. Data shows a substantial increase in qualification levels among early years educators. The proportion of staff holding a relevant degree rose from 12 percent in 2012 to 39 percent in 2025, indicating professional growth within the childcare sector.
8Climate Action Plan Delays
Minister Darragh O’Brien is seeking approval for the 2026 Climate Action Plan draft. The document must undergo environmental assessment screening before final government approval. Officials expect the process to conclude and the plan to be published before the end of the year, marking a critical step in national environmental policy development.