Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)

An information and tuition programme on adult literacy called "Read Write Now" was televised by RTE 1 in five series over the period 2000-05. In 2006, the National Adult Literacy Agency devised a new two-year multimedia literacy project, entitled "The Really Useful Guide to Words and Numbers". An element of this project is a TV series of that name, which is currently being shown once a week on RTE 1, at 1 p.m. on Sundays, with a repeat just after midnight on Tuesday. The series began in September 2006 and will run to April 2007. It is accompanied by a learner workbook, a free telephone helpline and a website. The website includes printable sheets from the workbook, additional on-line activities and the entire video clip of each programme 24 hours after broadcast.

When the transmission of the present series has been completed next April, its impact will be evaluated. The most appropriate next steps will be considered in light of the results of the evaluation. The series is being funded mainly by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, with contributions from my Department and RTE. The cost of the project in total is estimated at €2.6 million.

The Government has shown an unprecedented commitment to improving adult literacy provision. We have increased expenditure on adult literacy programmes from €1 million in 1997 to €23 million in 2006. As a result of this dramatic increase in funding, we have been able to expand the number of people receiving adult literacy training to the point where 35,000 people will receive a service in 2006. Referral networks have been developed by the VECs to ensure that the people who need them most are made aware of the adult literacy and basic education services available. The referral system involves collaboration with other agencies catering for potential literacy students, such as FÁS, employment offices, welfare and community groups and schools.

A number of joint literacy initiatives have been developed between FÁS, the VECs, the National Adult Literacy Agency and employers. A workplace literacy programme has been introduced in all local authority areas for outdoor workers. While the Department of Education and Science has the primary role in adult literacy and numeracy issues, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has a shared responsibility with regard to literacy and numeracy training in the workplace.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

My Department is committed to working with other partners to ensure that the needs of adults with low levels of literacy continue to receive the highest priority in the future. We are determined to use a variety of avenues to reach people who need an adult literacy service, and the use of specially designed TV programmes is one part of this approach.

See this speech in context