Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Mar 1992

Vol. 416 No. 6

Written Answers. - Illiteracy in Ireland.

Ivor Callely

Question:

270 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education if he will outline his Department's approach in addressing illiteracy among children in primary schools; if there is a higher rate of illiteracy in Ireland compared to other EC countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

There is no evidence of a higher rate of illiteracy in Ireland compared to other EC countries. Results of national surveys which have been conducted periodically since 1972 by professional staff of my Department indicate that there has been improvement in reading standards since the early seventies.