Vol. 492 No. 7
35 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason his Department's most recent estimate of the number of people participating in the adult literacy and community education schemes dates back to 1991; and his views on the way in which adult education policy can be properly developed with poor information in relation to existing activities. [14975/98]
A comprehensive survey of operation of the adult literacy and community education scheme was carried out in 1991.
Statistics on participant numbers in the scheme have not since been collected directly by the Department. However, information of this nature is available from the adult education organisations, Aontas and the National Adult Literacy Agency, with which the Department maintains a close liaison.
In addition, the adult education boards of vocational education committees submit annual reports to the Department, which serve as sources of information on the adult education services.
An increase of £2 million has been provided in 1998 for the provision of adult literacy. A key objective is to use this investment to support the strategic development of a national adult literacy strategy. Accordingly proposals for funding have been invited which test models and innovatory approaches in regard to public awareness and outreach strategies, the establishment of referral networks on an area basis, and the provision of a range of flexible options to meet demands. A key goal in this approach is to inform future practice, to identify and share the most successful strategies, and systematically enhance the capacity of the system to address literacy needs. Standardised performance indicators and reporting arrangements are being developed as part of the strategy.
