Sir, - As a teacher of adults with literacy problems I welcome your editorial "Education for all" (November 10th).
The problems of adult literacy and adult dyslexia have never been debated properly in this country. Illiteracy leads to social exclusion and anti-social behaviour. Yet millions are spent on prisons each year, but only a pittance on adult literacy.
In Cork City the VEC allocates funds (£16.50 to £20 an hour) for flower arrangers and people to give social welfare advice. But unpaid, unqualified volunteers are, after a six-week course, expected to teach adult literacy, while qualified and experienced teachers remain unemployed or emigrate.
As your editorial rightly asks, "Are we listening?" - Yours, etc., Michael O'Donnell,
Old Youghal Road,
Cork.