The Department of Education has been accused of capitulating to the Teachers unions over reform of the Junior Certificate.
The executive councils of the country's two biggest teaching unions have gathered in Dublin for talks to consider the new proposals.
The new plan has been drawn up by mediator Dr Pauric Travers, following two days of strike over the issue.
Talks are underway between members of the TUI and the ASTI in the Gresham Hotel to discuss a new plan. which will essentially see the junior cycle assessment split in two.
If it is passed, one grade will be given for the traditional state exams - while students will also be rewarded for what they have achieved in school.
It is also likely the introduction of the new Junior Cert science syllabus - due to be rolled out in September - would have to be delayed to facilitate further discussions.
The unions are staying tight lipped on whether they expect to agree to the proposals.
But founder of the University of Limerick, Dr Ed Walsh, says the department appears to have caved to the unions demands.
