Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 13: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí currently operating as juvenile liaison officers; if he has plans to increase the number having regard to the success of schemes operated by JLOs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32851/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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As of 31 August last, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the number of dedicated Juvenile Liaison Officers throughout the Force was 103, made up of 95 Gardaí and 8 Sergeants. An additional 7 new Juvenile Liaison Officer posts are being created in 2008. These new posts are to be located in the Garda Divisions of Cavan/Monaghan, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary, as well as Coolock, Finglas and Tallaght in the Dublin area. The position in Tallaght was filled in April and the remaining positions will be filled shortly. The Garda Commissioner has given a commitment to appoint a further 21 Juvenile Liaison Officers by 2010.

The Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme has proven to be highly successful in diverting young persons away from crime by offering guidance and support to them and their families. It also enables referral to the Garda Youth Diversion Projects, which seek to divert young people from becoming involved, or further involved, in anti-social or criminal behaviour. There are currently 100 of these projects operating throughout the country.