Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 174: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to provide extra resources to progress the implementation of the national youth work development plan and the Youth Work Act 2001 on a phased and prioritised basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29456/09]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 175: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to support a new youth work development plan for the period 2008 to 2012; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29457/09]

Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The youth sector has received considerable financial support over the past number of years. Funding expanded from €35.5m in 2004 to €52m in 2008. This funding has allowed for expansion in the sector including the roll out of a number of sections of the Youth Work Act, 2001 and priority actions cited in the National Youth Work Development Plan. These include the development of a child protection training and awareness programme for the youth sector, the development and expansion of the Special Projects for Youth Scheme, the appointment of an Assessor of Youth Work and the allocation of additional financial support, including the appointment of Youth Officers, to the VEC sector.

The 2009 Youth Affairs budget of over €48m will continue to focus on supporting existing youth programmes and services for young people including those with fewer opportunities. The National Youth Work Advisory Committee has reviewed the National Youth Work Development Plan and consideration is being given as to how matters can be progressed and developed further having regard to available resources.