New petition asks the government to provide information in plain english

Details of a new petition calling for plain English to be used by Government was launched in Dublin on Monday.

The petition asks the Taoiseach to ensure all public information produced by Government and its agencies is written in plain English.  

Plain English is a style of writing and presenting information that helps the reader to understand it the first time they read it. It involves using short, clear sentences and everyday words. It does not use small print or unnecessary jargon, read a statement from the petition organisers, The National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA).

Recent research commissioned by NALA found that almost 95 per cent of Irish adults are in favour of plain English. About half of them find official documents, including information from the Government, difficult to understand. They also find jargon, terms and conditions, and financial information challenging.

NALA want people to sign the petition to help them raise this issue with the Government and promote the use of plain English in Government information to the public.

Speaking at the launch, Director, Inez Bailey, stated: “Both citizens and governments benefit from clear information, written in plain English. Citizens are more likely to understand their rights and governments are more likely to make better use of their resources.”

“That’s why we recommend all public information produced by Government and its agencies is written in plain English,” she continued.
“After all, plain English encourages individuals to engage with public services and make informed decisions when doing so. Using plain English can also save the public sector time, money and possible frustration by having to take repeated requests for information.”

Last year Britain’s civil servants were banned from using the jargon that has kept comedy writers in gags for years.

Out goes ‘deliver’. Pizzas and post are delivered, it points out, not abstract concepts like ‘improvements’ or ‘priorities’.

Officials can no longer ‘drive’ anything out (unless it is cattle) or ‘foster’ (unless it is children).

‘Tackling’ is also banned (unless playing rugby or football), while the ‘key’ should always be in the lock.

NALA’s petition calls for public information such as letters, forms and information leaflets to be written in plain English.

Speaking before the launch, Chief Executive of the NCA, Karen O’Leary, said: “Using plain English has helped us provide consumers with clear and accessible information. Our website, consumerhelp.ie was developed using plain English principles. It has become a trusted source of information and a ‘go to’ place for consumers seeking information. Providing clear information also makes good business sense as it increases efficiency and value for money.”

People can sign the petition online at www.nala.ie or www.change.org