Reading key to unlocking creativity – Ruane

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has congratulated children and schools taking part in this year’s Children’s Books Ireland Festival.

The Children’s Books Ireland Festival, which will run through October, gives children the opportunity to meet authors, illustrators and performance poets.

The Minister said: “I have visited many schools and classrooms across the north and have seen first hand how books and reading can unlock a child’s creativity, inspire and motivate them.

“Festivals, such as Children’s Books Ireland, are invaluable in helping teachers and staff to encourage children to enjoy books and improve on their reading and writing skills. These skills are essential as we are aware that young people who leave school with inadequate reading and writing skills face a lifetime of difficulty and disadvantage.

“Everyday, both during leisure and work, we use the reading and writing skills we learnt at school. By encouraging children to read and enjoy books we are opening up new worlds, we are giving them access to information and knowledge. I want to congratulate all those participating in this year’s festival and keep up the good work.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Department has provided £30,000 for all five Education Library Boards to run events connected to the CBI festival through their regional literacy action plan.
2. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.