Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
127. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps he is taking to address the falling rates of literacy, meaning the increase in the percentage of adults aged 16 to 65 in Ireland who are at or below level 1 on the OECD's five-level literacy scale. [37447/25]
View answerThis Government believes that literacy is a human right as it allows each of us to fully engage in society and be active citizens.
That is why promoting the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy is a key priority for Government, my Department, SOLAS and the ETBs. Launched in 2021, the 10-year ALL Strategy aims to equip all adults with essential literacy, numeracy, and digital skills for full societal and workforce participation. It takes a cross-government, cross-society, and cross-economy approach to tackle adult literacy challenges and promote lifelong learning.
My Department invests €4 million annually to implement the ALL Strategy. Achievements include establishing a cross-government structure and a National Programme Office in SOLAS; active national and regional literacy coalitions across the 16 ETBs; funding over 270 literacy projects through the Collaboration and Innovation Fund; national awareness campaigns reaching over one million homes; training 100 government and public service staff in plain language and literacy training; and development of health literacy initiatives. These are just highlights to date, with a work programme planned for 2025.
I had the pleasure of addressing the Literacy Changing Lives event in June at Croke Park where I saw firsthand the transformative impact of basic literacy and numeracy skills can have on people’s lives.
I trust the Deputy will recognise that the progress outlined reflects a strong and coordinated effort to improve adult literacy. Sustained commitment across Government departments and agencies is essential to build on this momentum and secure lasting improvements for adult learners.
