Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy raises an important point. I acknowledge the importance of the Garda youth diversion projects. With specific reference to youth involvement in gangland activity, my Department funded research in the form of the Greentown report undertaken at the University of Limerick. This research outlines how the influence of criminal networks increases the level of offending by a small number of children and entraps them in offending situations, including the distribution and carrying of drugs and, often, the carrying of firearms. A new Greentown programme has been designed with the input of leading Irish and international experts on crime and criminal networks, taking into account child protection and welfare, drugs and community development. It is due to commence on a pilot basis this year.

See this speech in context