22/10/2026
Ireland is leading the way in reading, but how do we keep the next generation turning the pages?
While Ireland ranks first in the EU for reading according to OECD PISA findings, declining reading performance internationally highlights the importance of encouraging children to read for pleasure.
Meet Keith Byrne, Ballymun primary school teacher and MS Readathon 2026 Ambassador.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2015, Keith knows the value of reading, both in the classroom and in his own life.
He shares why helping children discover books they enjoy is so important, and how the MS Readathon can inspire a lifelong love of reading while supporting people living with MS.
📚 Join the MS Readathon this November!
Schools, families and individual readers can sign up for free, enjoy their favourite books and help raise vital funds to support people living with MS across Ireland.
Sign up today: https://www.msreadathon.ie/
Read Keith's story: https://www.ms-society.ie/news/irelands-reading-superpower-what-one-ballymun-classroom-can-teach-us-about-oecds-reading