I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 55 together.
I am not aware that any organisation other than the Department of Education have carried out a national survey of reading attainment in recent years, nor am I aware of any evidence to support the Deputy's assertion that illiteracy among children leaving the primary cycle has increased in recent years.
National surveys of English reading have been conducted by the professional staff of my Department since 1972. The most recent survey which was conducted in May-June 1988 involved a national sample of fifth class and 11 year old pupils. The results of the 1988 survey showed that no significant change in average levels of reading attainment had taken place since 1980. Comparison between the 1988 surevy and a survey which was carried out in 1972 indicated that reading standards of primary cycle pupils improved by approximately eight months in terms of reading age during the intervening period.
The national surveys suggest, therefore, that there has been some improvements since the early seventies. However, that is not to say that I am fully satisfied with the level of improvement that has taken place. I am at present examining the report of the Primary Curriculum Review Body which made recommendations on this matter and I would not wish to make a statement until this examination is fully completed. Many recommendations were put forward in that report and a revision of the English programme was recommended taking into account from (a) to (k) under the heading of curriculum content.