There are also particular problems with transition from primary to secondary school in Ireland. In addition, among 14 year olds, three times as many boys as girls have serious literacy problems. Many of their skills are under utilised. The pace of change in technology means Ireland must embrace lifelong learning. This is a challenge for employers, community and government alike.
Literacy is a vital building block in lifelong learning.
The development of systematic literacy testing in first class at primary and at secondary level Greater priority for the development of library facilities Remedial budgets for all schools Development of a programme to overcome transition problems between primary and secondary schools Immediate assessment of the feasibility of developing referral facilities for children with acute literacy problems linked to behavioural problems Developing of pilot workplace training partnerships Public Service client support for people experiencing difficulty in coping with eligibility procedures.