Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)

I welcome the opportunity to say a few words on this Bill. I will now probably have to say a few more than I had expected.

The Bill before us arises from circumstances of which we are all aware, high profile cases of recent years and one in particular that happened last year. We can all understand the background to the Bill, but I am not at all sure that it is the right response. I agree with a number of speakers on both sides of the House who have expressed concerns. I wish to address the issue from a different perspective, that of prevention rather than cure.

I would like to see more recreational facilities and resources made available to young people in particular. That is the best way to tackle crime, not only this one but any crime. We should start on the ground and make resources available to those working in local communities to ensure that youths, who are prone to involvement in anti-social behaviour and ultimately crime, have an opportunity to gain employment and participate in society. I ask the Minister to examine the lack of resources for youth work in Clonmel and a recent report by the RAPID programme in that regard.

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