Minister Haughey launches City of Waterford VEC report

Posted on 18/09/09 by Seán Haughey The Minister for Lifelong Learning, Seán Haughey TD, today launched the City of Waterford VEC report 'Provision of Adult Literacy in Waterford City- A Snapshot' at Athanaeum House, Waterford City.
At the event in Waterford, Minister Haughey said: 'Great commitment is needed to run and manage adult and further education programmes and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of the City of Waterford VEC Adult Literacy Programme for their time and commitment to Adult Education over a long number of years.
'Those involved in education and training, whether as tutors or administrators, are to the fore encouraging learners to come foreword and take up the challenge of lifelong learning.
'City of Waterford VEC is a prime example of the sterling efforts being made throughout the country to provide opportunities for individuals to return to education through their suite of Adult and Further education programmes.
'Since my appointment as Minister of State with responsibility for Lifelong Learning, it has been my mission to encourage and support all appropriate measures for increasing literacy and basic education.
'Great steps have been taken in recent times.
'In just over ten years, the number of people accessing literacy services has increased ten-fold, from 5,000 back in 1997, to just under 50,000 in 2008.
'Lifelong Learning provides learners with more self-confidence and promotes a more inclusive society and active citizenship.
'We must continue to actively encourage people into education, and engage continuously in Lifelong Learning.
'The implementation of the recommendations in this report will contribute greatly to the continued provision of a first-class adult literacy programme for the people of Waterford city.'