Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy O'Mahony for sharing time. Not only is it important that the service is re-established as quickly as possible to avoid the need for more expensive prison places and to provide the opportunity to avail of this valuable service to young people, it is imperative that the skill set and knowledge built up over the past ten years in the staffing pool is not lost to any new service. While discussions have focused on the lack of specific skills of the voluntary management committee, it is evident that there was no difficulty with the present structure while the probation service took an active role in the management of the facility until June 2004. It was unfair on the voluntary committee, the staff and the management of the facility for the probation service to take a step back from such an active role. It is now essential that the probation service step up to the mark to secure the long-term future of Harristown House and its staffing complement. It is clear from recommendations in the report that the independent review body believes that this service needs to be re-established and reinstated as soon as possible.

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