David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 74: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of young persons currently involved in Garda youth diversion programmes; the success of these programmes in reducing crime in these communities; the plans he has to expand these programmes to other areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10887/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy is aware, there are currently 64 Garda youth diversion projects operating in both urban and rural areas. Approximately 3,150 participants are currently involved in the Garda youth diversion projects.

The Garda youth diversion projects are a crime prevention measure which seek to divert young persons from becoming involved, or further involved, in anti-social and-or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects of participants. The type of crime that the projects were set up to address has diminished significantly in their respective areas, as reflected in crime data relating to the areas where the projects are located. There is also evidence of a reduction in anti-social behaviour and an improved quality of life for people in the catchment areas of projects. While this reduction cannot be ascribed entirely to the work of the projects, they have contributed to it. The success of each project is achieved through a close match between local problems and tailored solutions. An evaluation of the projects by the Children's Research Centre TCD, published in 2000 as The Impact and Effectiveness of the Garda Special Projects, indicated a positive experience by the young people involved and concluded that the positive impact of the projects overall justifies their retention.

Proposals made by the Garda Síochána to my Department on establishing additional projects are examined within the context of available resources.