Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 2

Written Answers. - Adult Literacy Services.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

460 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed about the running of the Clondalkin adult literacy scheme, particularly in regard to the resignation of an organiser and the high turnover of tutors; if he will appoint an official of his Department to carry out an inquiry into the running of the scheme; if he has had considerations made into the establishment of a separate body to supervise adult literacy schemes, independently of the vocational education committees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18134/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

Adult literacy services are delivered by vocational education committees, in this case County Dublin Vocational Education Committee, through local literacy schemes, each under an adult literacy organiser.

My attention has been drawn to difficulties that affected the Clondalkin scheme in 1999. My information is that these difficulties have now been resolved.

The VEC is currently carrying out a strategic review of the operation of its literacy services in order to inform the continued development and expansion of provision as more resources in this area come on stream.