§ 8. Judy MallaberTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on Government action to develop essential skills in Northern Ireland. [146813]
§ Jane KennedyThe Essential Skills for Living Strategy and Action Plan was launched in October 2002. Our aim is to support 25,000 adults in Northern Ireland to improve their literacy and numeracy skills by 2005. In the first year 6,500 learners were supported and we are on track to meet our target of supporting a further 8,000 learners by March 2004.