Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 266: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda youth diversion projects that have been established in the country and the location of each project. [34363/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Garda youth diversion projects are a community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiative 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. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda/community relations. The number of projects has increased from 12 in 1997 to 74 at present, a process made possible, in part, by funding under the National Development Plan 2000 — 2006. Some 71 of the projects are in operation with three under review.

The allocation of funding for the 74 Garda Youth Diversion Projects (along with seven Local Drug Task Force Projects) in 2006 is just over €6.6 million, which is an increase of €1.2 million on 2005. It is my intention to ensure that 100 schemes will be established nationwide before the end of 2007. As part of this expansion, ten new projects were established this year and they are located in Blanchardstown, Birr, Carlow, Castlebar, Cavan, Clondalkin, Limerick, Tallaght and Tralee (two projects).

The 74 Garda Youth Diversion Projects and 7 Local Drugs Taskforce Projects currently in place are as follows:

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 267: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a Garda youth diversion project has been established in a Gaeltacht area here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34364/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Garda youth diversion project guidelines have been developed to deal with the establishment, operation, administration and monitoring of projects. In accordance with the Guidelines, proposals to establish new Garda youth diversion projects are forwarded to the Garda Commissioner for consideration and recommendation to my Department. Projects are established when resources permit and in locations where it is considered this method of intervention is most needed. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently no Garda youth diversion projects operating through the medium of Irish or established covering a location which is a Gaeltacht area.