The government is being asked to use plain English, with almost 95% of Irish adults surveyed asking them to make the change.

The National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) found that almost half - 48% - of adults they polled had trouble understanding official documents from the government.

It is calling on government departments to use everyday words where possible, explain specialised words if they must be used and to keep sentences short.

The agency is running a petition, calling on the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to ensure that all public information produced by the government and its agencies is written in simple, plain English.

"Citizens are more likely to understand their rights and governments are more likely to make better use of their resources," the NALA says.

"That's why we recommend that all public information produced by government and its agencies is written in plain English."

"After all, plain English encourages individuals to engage with public services and make informed decisions when doing so. It can also save the public sector time, money and possible frustration by having to make repeated requests for information," it adds.

Inez Bailey is director of the NALA.