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Butler challenges government to tackle illiteracy problem June 6, 2006
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Roland Butler, Opposition Education Critic and MHA for the District of Port
de Grave, says he is disappointed with recent results contained in a
national literacy survey outlining the percentage of people in this province
who are considered illiterate. In a recent survey conducted by the National Literacy Secretariat, it concluded that upwards of 50 per cent of the people living in this province are functioning at the two lowest levels of literacy proficiency. "This survey demonstrates that the literacy resources and programs available in this province are far from sufficient," said Mr. Butler. "We have heard very little from the provincial government regarding this survey and what plans they have to address the overall issue of high illiteracy rates in Newfoundland and Labrador. "Unfortunately, at a time when literacy programs in the province need investment, this government is cutting funding and programs. We have already witnessed the dismantling of the literacy branch in the Department of Education and the firing of the Executive Director. In addition, instead of increasing funding to expand Adult Basic Education (ABE) sites in the province, this government has cut funding to sites such as the one located in Deer Lake. "The ABE pilot project that was set up under the previous administration was intended to ascertain the literacy and learning needs of adults in this province, and be used to expand the program after the pilot stage was completed. The current government did not recognize the importance of these programs and did not follow through on this plan. In the K-12 system, we are hearing from teachers that too much time is being placed on testing and identifying children’s weaknesses, instead of allowing students to learn and teachers to teach. "It is obvious that this government has very little commitment to literacy programs in this province and no clear plan on addressing the results released in this report. If there is to be any improvement in the fight to combat illiteracy in this province, I suggest the minister of education make the necessary investment and commitment to ensure this report is not shelved, but acted upon in the best interests of people in Newfoundland and Labrador."
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