Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State. I am glad the Minister is acting in this regard. We should not be afraid to imitate a success story.

The Minister of State announced last September the commencement of the family welfare conferencing and special care provision in Parts 2 and 3 of the Act. It is to be welcomed that these provisions of the Act are finally off the starting blocks. It is of paramount importance that this system is now in place and that each health board has these services available. The two core principles underlying family welfare conferencing are that the child's interests are paramount and, in so far as possible, the child is best cared for within his or her own family. That is not always possible but I am pleased that resources are now in place to insist on the implementation of these principles. I presume the health boards will report on the implementation of those provisions once a period of time has elapsed.

The Garda juvenile diversion programme has been in place since 1963, providing an opportunity to divert juvenile offenders from criminal activities. The programme operated initially on the basis of the common law principle of police discretion and it is now provided for under the Act.

I pay tribute to all those involved in the juvenile diversion programme on their 40 years of work and dedication, which should be applauded by all. They play an important role as regards juvenile offenders.

Our spokesman on health and children, Senator Browne, shall deal in greater detail with the health and children area of the Act. While we have made progress and that is welcome, I hope further resources will be made available as soon as possible to progress the many other important sections and ensure the Act, in its entirety, is put into operation.

I commend the Minister of State on his work and wish him well.