Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 3

Written Answers. - Literacy Levels.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

192 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 106 of 12 November 2003, if his attention has been drawn to the research which shows that programmes in the arts and music develop reading skills and are very effective at pre-primary and primary level; and if he will make a statement on the fact that such programmes do not seem to be used alongside, or in place of, some of the solutions outlined in his answer to that question in view of the fact that prevention is better than cure. [28270/03]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I am aware that studies have highlighted that arts and music education programmes provide important opportunities for learning. However, the latest evidence for transfer of learning and for the beneficial effects of arts and music education on literacy levels is inconclusive.

Nevertheless, programmes of support for disadvantaged school communities, funded by my Department, are mindful of the vital role and impact of the arts on children's general learning. In addition, the primary school curriculum 1999 states clearly that an experience of the arts is an important aspect of the general education of the primary school child.