Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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That is welcome news. As Deputy Healy said, it is interesting to note the international evidence of the economic value of early intervention. This has been outlined with regard to early childhood care but not so much with regard to youth work. However, this document provides an outline of the economic value of youth work. I support the development of youth work. Savings of approximately €5 million have been identified in the comprehensive review of expenditure for youth. We are taking steps to ensure that these savings are targeted to the greatest extent possible in order to reduce the impact on projects. I recognise the importance of projects. The local youth club grant scheme supports 1,600 voluntary youth clubs in the country with 90,000 young people availing of their services. No funding will be removed from that scheme. A total of €43.2 million was given to five grant schemes in 2011. Many of these schemes are funding the same projects. These schemes have evolved over time and their objectives have overlapped in some ways. A review of the position on the ground would have been timely, even without the economic imperative to do so. We are working on a reform plan for the five grant schemes with the intention of achieving cost and operational efficiencies proceeding to a new system consisting of one or two coherent schemes based on clear criteria. We have had discussions with various youth organisations. Even though there is a cutback in funding of €5 million identified for next year, the amalgamation of the programmes will give the youth organisations greater flexibility in their use of funding. It will mean that projects can continue.

Our work to date has indicated a significant scope for increased efficiencies and cost reductions within some of the organisational structures. During the past year, my Department and the youth officers working with the VECs have been advising projects on the best actions for achieving savings while continuing to maintain services. From January 2013 the 470 projects involved will receive one funding stream rather than the current situation of multiple-stream funding. This will help the management of the projects. It will mean a more rational allocation from the organisations to the schemes. The Department has adopted this phased approach to enable projects to adapt in advance of the Department's formal value for money review of youth schemes which is to commence next month and to report by mid-year 2013. A number of youth organisations are currently in receipt of very significant grant funding from the Department. For example, Foróige Ireland received over €2.2 million in 2012; Youth Work Ireland received over €2.1 million; Catholic Youth Care received over €1 million. The major sporting organisations are also in receipt of significant grant funding. I wish to reassure Deputies that the youth sector overall still receives significant funding. I recognise the difficulties and I would prefer if there was no need to make savings in this area because the work is invaluable. If Deputies have any suggestions or recommendations I am open to hearing same. I recognise the value of the work and the commitment of youth workers and youth organisations. I have visited the various projects around the country. Deputy Conway referred to the capital funding for the youth cafés. I am pleased it is available for them because we need to support that work.