Concerns were raised over the high failure rates of students who took ordinary-level maths and science in the Leaving Certificate as some 50,000 students received their results at schools and online today.
Almost 5,000 students or 10 per cent failed maths at either ordinary, higher or foundation level, making many ineligible for third-level courses.
Results in science-based subjects are also disappointing with only 7 per cent securing honours in physics, 8 per cent in chemistry and 23 per cent in biology. The failure rates at ordinary level are also high, with over 15 per cent failing chemistry and biology.
While no student matched last year's achievement of nine A1s, 11 achieved 8 A1s.
Fine Gael's education spokeswoman Olwyn Enright accused Minister for Education Mary Hanafin of being unwilling or unable to address the crisis in maths and science.
"Once again, the Leaving Certificate results have exposed the soft underbelly of Ireland's supposed move towards a 'knowledge economy'. The figures speak for themselves, and show that the Government remains blind to the need for reform in how key subjects are taught and examined," she said.
Sinn Féin sought immediate reform of the Leaving Certificate exam as the results were handed out today.
Senator Pearse Doherty called for the introduction of a system of continuous assessment in all subjects to relieve students of the annual two week period of intense examinations.
"Students should be empowered by education and enjoy their experience instead of having to endure sleepless nights cramming or fretting about what topics will come up in the one-off exams that may determine one's future options," he said.
Tony Donohoe, head of education at employers' group Ibec said the development of a knowledge economy is dependent on a strong supply of scientists, engineers and technologies, but the results raised doubts about the ability to deliver on this agenda.
Careers expert Brian Mooney said last night that investing in science and technology laboratories was the only way to reverse the crisis in these subjects. Facilities that enable students to enjoy a "hands on" approach would help to arrest the fall-off in demand for science subjects, he said.
Patricia Wroe, ASTI President of the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland (ASTI) Patricia Wroe said the hard work and achievements of all Leaving Cert students should be acknowledged.
"This is an important day and represents the culmination of five to six years hard work and effort for students. Leaving Certificate students have different goals and objectives and for one student, obtaining passes is just as significant - and deserves as much praise - as another student obtaining straight honours," said Ms Wroe, who is a guidance counsellor.
"We must always strive to ensure that each young person's unique set of abilities, talents and interests are supported through learning, assessment and certification. We must also ensure that as we develop our education system we retain the best features of our current examination system - its transparency and objectivity, its public status and international reputation, and its high standards."
Ms Wroe said that while the Leaving Certificate is an important milestone in young people's lives, there are many different avenues to achieving a career goal.
"It is vital that every student who receives his or her results today keeps a level head and explores all the options carefully over the coming days and weeks, so that they can make a considered and wise choice about their future."
President McAleese also extended her congratulations to all those who received their examination results this morning.
"Thousands of students from around the country today will receive the results of their most significant academic test to date. I hope today brings the success you have hoped and worked hard for, opening up exciting and challenging opportunities for the next chapter in your lives," she said.