Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of my colleague, Senator O'Donovan, our justice spokesperson, I welcome the passing of this Bill. I very much welcome the fact that St. Patrick's Institution will be closed. I note that it is over three decades since a committee chaired by Mr. T.K. Whitaker recommended that it be closed. I am glad this day has eventually arrived.I agree with Senator Jillian van Turnhout. Unfortunately, if we think this will bring to an end young people being incarcerated, it will not. We very much look forward to the day when it will happen, while accepting the fact that it must happen in some cases as a last resort. Perhaps we might consider putting more resources into education programmes such as Youthreach which conducts very successful programmes throughout the country, as well as and other support services. It might result in young people not necessarily being detained at the State's pleasure.

I welcome the Bill.