Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Obviously, my Department, along with all other Departments, has been required to deliver substantial savings in recent years, in line with the comprehensive review of expenditure for 2012 to 2014. In determining the annual allocations for youth programmes I must have regard to the savings required of my Department but I have sought to ensure that front-line services, particularly those for the most vulnerable young people, are protected as far as possible. There was a discussion during the budget negotiations last year about this and I highlighted the importance of youth services. I was very pleased to secure additional funding for my Department which meant that the reductions in the youth services area were considerably smaller than what had been intended originally. The final reduction was 3.75%. I attended a significant youth conference yesterday and it was highlighted to me that the minimising of the reduction was very much appreciated by the sector. The importance of youth services was acknowledged in my discussions with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Howlin, and others. It meant that the intended reductions were significantly reduced. I agree with Deputy Ó Cuív that we must focus on prevention and early intervention. All of the studies show that there is a saving to the Exchequer if we invest wisely in the early years. Generally, we must have more of a focus on early intervention.

See this speech in context