In a surprise move, RTE is to broadcast comprehensive live coverage of every exam of this year’s Leaving Cert.
Leaving Cert Live will be anchored by Michael Lyster, with commentary from Ger Canning and Marty Morrissey, and a nightly highlights show hosted by Des Cahill.
“With the nation deprived of its usual sporting action, RTE is giving viewers the next best thing,” said an RTE spokesperson.
“Leaving Cert Live will provide all the tension and drama of the GAA, with the added bonus that losers don’t get a second chance through the back door system. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
These competitors have been preparing for this event for the last 18 years. They won’t want to fall short, especially with the whole nation watching.”
Teachers unions have expressed concerns at the move. An ASTI spokesperson told DTTN that televising the state exams could lead to an increased level of play-acting, as seen in English schools.
“We don’t want Irish students going down easy in the box just because the invigilator initiated contact handing them their paper. It could wreak havoc with the points system. We’d also have to work out points deductions for red and yellow cards. Not to mention fecking black cards.”
Leaving Cert Live starts on RTE 2 on 29th July with English Paper I.