Quarter of Irish population have lowest level of literacy

At least a quarter of the population in Ireland have the lowest level of literacy, while a further third are only barely able to read and write.

The Irish Vocational Educational Association provides more than 90% of adult learning classes and courses.

But the group says its work is underfunded and understaffed and General Secretary Michael Moriarty said today that the increasing number of non-nationals who need to learn English is adding to the strain on its services.