Written answers

Thursday, 26 January 2006

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Juvenile Offenders

5:00 pm

Photo of Charlie O'ConnorCharlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 125: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if consideration will be given to the application supported by the community and the Garda authorities in respect of a Garda diversion project for Tymon North, Tallaght, Dublin 24; the needs in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2576/06]

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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There are currently 64 Garda youth diversion projects, three of which — KEY, JAY and YEW — are operating in the Tallaght area. In addition, one sergeant and four Garda level juvenile liaison officers operate from Tallaght Garda station. I am committed to the continuing development and, as resources permit, expansion of Garda youth diversion projects and the possibility of funding further projects in light of budgetary conditions remains. A budget of €6.6 million has been provided for the Garda youth diversion projects and local drugs task force projects in 2006. This represents an increase of €1.2 million in the budget for youth diversion compared with 2005.

It is my intention to ensure that 100 schemes will be established nationwide before the end of 2007. I have, therefore, asked the Garda Commissioner to bring forward proposals for further community based initiatives in this area in light of the additional funding. I am informed by the Garda authorities that an updated application for an additional project in the Tallaght area — the STAY project — was received by the Garda community relations section on 5 January 2006. The catchment area proposed by this project covers Tymon North. This application is being assessed by the community relations section in accordance with the Garda youth diversion project guidelines. This assessment, when completed, and a recommendation on funding will be forwarded to my Department for consideration.

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