Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2015
165. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he is implementing a plain English policy, as outlined by the National Adult Literacy Agency, in his Department's communications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7285/15]
View answerAs Minister for Health, I communicate with citizens in plain English, as far as possible. The Department's website was redeveloped recently and content was rewritten in a plain English style. The Department's style guides for officials emphasise the benefits of avoiding jargon, using short, clear sentences and being as concise as possible. As Minister I require all speeches, press releases and other material to be written as clearly as possible.
It is important that citizens can access information about health services in plain English. In 2009 the HSE worked with NALA to produce a plain language style guide for documents they produce.
