The probation and welfare service is wonderful and at any given time may deal with as many as 5,000 offenders fulfilling community-based sanctions under its supervision. The service is also involved in the management of offenders and the development of programmes as an alternative to custodial sentences. This can be good, particularly when dealing with youngsters. The increase in funding for the service has been in the region of 116% since 1997 and staff numbers have risen from 46 to 268, which represents money well spent. We should continue to highlight this area. The number of Garda youth diversion projects which have also played their has gone from 12 to 65. This type of funding and focus which diverts money towards securing the well-being of young people and possible young offenders represents the way forward.