Minister congratulates Junior Cert students

Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe congratulated the anxious 55,557 students who received their Junior Cert results today.

The minister said it was a proud day for students, parents and teachers and the culmination of many hours of hard work.

"Well done to each and every one of you. All the personal effort has been worthwhile and has now paid dividends," he said.

Mr O'Keeffe said he was heartened to see that 87% of students had taken science, with the vast majority sitting the higher level paper.

"The practical elements of the exam, which account for up to a third of the marks, certainly takes pressure off students during the final exam," he said.

"Teachers, students and parents will see the benefit of this in the results obtained. I hope that students will continue with science subjects when planning their subjects for the Leaving Certificate."

Mr O'Keeffe also said he was delighted to see the large number of adults going back into education.

"This has a tremendous effect on the personal lives of these individuals as well as giving them an increased number of options for the future."

Meanwhile teenagers have been advised to party responsibly tonight if taking alcohol.

The minister added: "I hope that students will celebrate sensibly and not let their parents or themselves down.

"They should celebrate with their families and close friends and not put themselves or others at risk."