Sir, – Reading your letters page from here in France, I was stunned to discover that back in Ireland State exams on Sunday have become a feature of life (“Leaving Cert Spanish oral tests clash with teen sleep patterns,” Letters, March 31st).
The same would be unthinkable in France, as indeed in all other counties in Europe, and most countries in the world. They all have the same logistical problems as Ireland and most are just as secular, but none have resorted to hijacking a community day of rest.
It is extraordinary that this happened in Ireland, slowly, by stealth, with no debate, no discussion, no apparent opposition from teachers or parents.
Sunday March 29th was particularly draconian, being both the day the clocks went forward, and Palm Sunday..
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Would the Department of Education also like to get their hands on Easter Sunday? And why not Christmas as well? – Yours, etc,
CIARÁN MAC GUILL
Clichy,
France.
