Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is referring to criminal assaults being perpetrated by young people on other young people. I agree that it is an issue that requires attention. Of course, there are difficulties experienced by communities and individuals due to the anti-social behaviour of some youths. One of the ways in which An Garda Síochána tackles these issues is through behaviour warnings and behaviour orders. A member of An Garda Síochána may issue a behaviour warning to a child who has behaved in an anti-social manner. A behaviour warning is very much a preliminary step which must be taken before an application can be made to the courts. Many superintendents in charge of districts are convening meetings on anti-social behaviour in order to ensure every effort is made to inform both parents and young people as to the legal situation. A considerable number of behaviour orders have been granted. Fines are imposed in respect of the breach of a behaviour order.

Since 2007 a total of 3,564 behaviour warnings have been handed out and a number of behaviour orders have been issued by the courts. That demonstrates that early intervention on the part of the Garda does have a positive effect. I take very seriously the point raised by the Deputy and do not disagree with the issue he raised.

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