Skip to main content
Irish Penal Reform Trust

'What’s going on with teenagers in Ireland?': Do we have a problem with youth crime?

31st May 2026

This article from The Journal reports on public concern about youth crime and the wider social factors influencing teenage behaviour and referencesIPRT’s recent findings in From Punishment to Progress, highlighting how poverty, inequality and disadvantage increase the risk of young people entering the criminal justice system. 

The article also features expert commentary on the need for nuanced responses, early support and diversion‑focused approaches for children and teenagers.

Read the full article here. 

Our work is supported by

This website uses cookies to provide a good browsing experience

Some are necessary to help our website work properly and can't be switched off, and some are optional. Click on "Choose cookies" below for more information on the cookies being used on this website. Please note that based on your settings, not all functions of the website may be available. You can manage your preferences by visiting “Cookie preferences" at the bottom of any page.

This website uses cookies to provide a good browsing experience

Some are necessary to help our website work properly and can't be switched off, and some are optional. Please choose the cookies to allow below. Please note that based on your settings, not all functions of the website may be available. You can manage your preferences by visiting “Cookie preferences" at the bottom of any page.

Your cookie preferences have been saved.