Govt urged to increase literacy spend

Ten per cent of the Government’s annual education budget should be invested in learning and literacy programmes for adults.

According to the adult education group Aontas, the spin-offs from adult education initiatives help contribute to a sustainable economy.

Information officer with Aontas, Frances Killeen, said a lack of funding discourages many adults from returning to education.

“For many adults returning to education, it’s not ideal for them to go back on a full time basis," she said.

“For example, if they go back to third level education, they are obliged to pay a full time fee and for many, that just isn’t feasible. The fees are high and there are also childcare and transport costs which we are calling on the Government to look at."