Vol. 471 No. 6
59 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the criticisms by the literacy groups of the misunderstandings in the White Paper on Education regarding the nature and the full extent of the literacy problem among adults; if so, her response to such criticisms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21180/96]
I am aware that some parties involved with literacy have criticised elements of the Education White Paper "Charting our Education Future" relating to the extent of the literacy problem. I would, however, emphasise that the White Paper identifies the policy priority in adult education as being to ensure that suitable and effective programmes are in place to enable adults to overcome literacy and numeracy problems. I am also aware that there is a significant literacy problem in this country.
My commitment to develop and enhance the programmes in place to address adult literacy and numeracy problems and adult education in general is reflected both in the policy measures proposed in the White Paper and the substantial additional funding provided in recent years to support these services.
