The Department for Employment and Learning is calling on adults in Fermanagh to tackle their learning gremlins this New Year and embark on free Essential Skills courses.

Statistics show 25% of Northern Ireland's population experience difficulties with basic reading, writing and maths.

In a bid to counteract this problem the Department has made provision for the delivery of free courses and advice across the province, for all adults wishing to improve their numeracy and literacy skills.

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey has encouraging words for anyone experiencing such difficulties: "The New Year is the perfect time to take control and address the things we keep putting off.

Brushing up on your Essential Skills can bring many new challenges and is an opportunity to not only improve your skills but to boost your job prospects and increase confidence.

"I would encourage anyone who has difficulties with their literacy and numeracy skills to seek help and make 2008 a year of change."

Essential Skills enrolment is free, simple and hassle-free and advisers are on hand to offer as much advice and support as needed.

Numeracy and literacy courses are available at every level and advice is given on what level best suits your needs.

Further Education Colleges and Training Providers across the province offer free Essential Skills courses to adults wishing to return to education – simply call the freephone number 0800 100 900 and a trained adviser will direct you to your nearest reading, writing and maths course.

The Department's Essential Skills campaign has, to date, helped over 30,000 adult learners to gain a qualification in numeracy and literacy and hopes to encourage an additional 10,500 learners to achieve an Essential Skills qualification in 2008.