Cyprian Brady (Fianna Fail)

I raise this matter to ask what plans the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has for the future of the Garda youth diversion programme and whether it intends to maintain funding levels for various projects under its auspices. Over the past number of weeks, I have been approached by representatives of a number of projects, particularly on the north side of the city, who have concerns about funding. As the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, is aware, these projects play a vital role in many inner city communities and it would be a shame, having brought them so far, to let them flounder. The problem seems to be a lack of commitment to ongoing funding with provision being made instead every three months. There are at least three projects in my area which are very uncertain about the future and do not know if they will continue to exist into the new year.

These projects are extremely valuable in addressing the continuing problems of alcohol and drug abuse by young people. The age profile of drug misusers in Dublin is falling dramatically. I saw one case recently involving a nine year old who was taking cannabis on a regular basis in the north inner city. This is the sort of thing we are up against and the projects in question play a significant role in dealing with the issues individual kids have. Many of them come from very tough family circumstances and these projects provide an outlet for them. In quite a number of cases, the diversion programme has been successful in preventing young children from travelling down the road of crime and drug and alcohol misuse. I am interested to hear the Minister of State's reply.