PEl Press Conference Calls for Action

On December 16th, four provincial Atlantic Canadian literacy groups: the PEl Literacy Alliance, the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick, Literacy Nova Scotia, and the Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador challenged the Right Honourable Paul Martin to uphold the promise of The Rising Tide at a press conference in Charlottetown, PEI.

The Rising Tide: Continuing Commitment to Atlantic Canada, is an ambitious blueprint designed by the Atlantic Federal Liberal caucus. This 'investment strategy' calls for more federal support for literacy programs to help bring Atlantic Canada into the new economy. The Rising Tide which was proposed to Paul Martin in October could change the landscape for literacy programs in Atlantic Canada, if he accepts it.

During the press conference, Catherine O'Bryan, Executive Director of the PEl Literacy Alliance commented, "lf we want to make Atlantic Canada economically and socially sound, we must raise our literacy levels. lf we want to prosper, we must support literacy as the essential skill." The International Adult Literacy Survey states that over 50% of Atlantic Canadians aged sixteen and over need improved literacy skills.

The literacy groups support a four-pronged strategy to build human skills infrastructure: improve literacy and other basic skills; access and recognize existing skills and learning; improve access to lifelong learning opportunities and foster an environment that encourages Atlantic Canadians to further their education. The groups asked Prime Minister Martin to include them in the development and implementation of The Rising Tide strategy.

Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
P.O. Box 8174, Stn. A
St. John's, NL A1B 3M9

Phone: (709) 738-7323
Fax: (709) 738-7353
Toll Free: 1-800-563-1111
Webpage: www.nald.ca/nfldlit.htm

Editor: Kimberley Gillard
Layout/Design Editor: Jennifer Petten

The Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland
and Labrador is a non-profit, charitable organization