Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 227: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will recognise or offer financial or other support towards the setting up of a youth organisation modelled on the US-based Boystown concept, as envisaged by a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow, which could offer security, guidance and stability to young boys who may be vulnerable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3705/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy may be aware my Department has particular responsibilities regarding the criminal justice system and how this affects children who come into conflict with the law. Following a Government decision regarding reforms in the youth justice area an executive office, the Irish Youth Justice Service (IYJS), has been set up in my Department to manage and develop all aspects of youth justice. I have been informed by the Irish Youth Justice Service that it has not received an application or submission from the person referred to by the Deputy in relation to the Girls and Boys Town model. Should a submission be received by the IYJS it will be considered in the context of the principles of the Children Act 2001, the overall youth justice strategy and the availability of resources.