The Leaving Cert results, due in schools this morning, show considerable improvement in grades across most subjects, with little evidence that students were affected by the teachers' strike.
However, the employers' body, IBEC, last night expressed concern at the high failure rates in ordinary-level maths and some science subjects.
Last night Ms Catherine Fitzpatrick, president of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland said it was obvious from the results that the teachers' strike had not adversely affected students' exam performance. "The dispute did not have any impact on the students in their exams. Teachers made sure the courses were covered," she said.
Department of Education sources dismissed any suggestions of "soft marking", pointing out that the general trends were consistent with previous years.
The most striking features of the results were:
A dramatic increase in the numbers gaining honours in higher-level English, up 10 per cent to 76 per cent.
An unprecedented 21 per cent gaining an A grade in higher-level maths, up 7 per cent.
High failure rates in ordinary-level maths (17 per cent) and ordinary-level biology (22 per cent).
Only one student in the State, a male from Dublin, secured the maximum possible result, nine A1s (an A1 is between 90 and 100 per cent) in the exam.
The Minister for Education, Dr Woods, said while the results followed a pattern broadly similar to previous years, a higher proportion was receiving honours than last year.
The Teachers' Union of Ireland president, Mr John McGabhann, welcomed the improvement in higher-level English, where 36 per cent of students achieved B3 or higher, compared to 26.6 per cent last year.
The results are available at schools from this morning. However, students can also access them on www.examinations.ie from midday or by phoning 1530 719290. Those abroad should dial 00 353 1 7096646. Exam and PIN numbers are required to access these services.
Today The Irish Times will host a special web seminar. Emmet Oliver, Education Correspondent, and guidance counsellor Vivian Cassells will be responding to questions about college options. Questions may be e-mailed to education@irish-times.ie
High standard shows pupils not affected by strike-ASTI: page 4 Editorial comment: page 15