30th November 2004
424. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when or the circumstances in which it is proposed to reactivate a juvenile justice project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31088/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): Garda youth diversion projects - formerly Garda special projects - are funded by my Department. They are a crime prevention initiative designed to engage with young people who have been identified as being at risk of involvement in criminal or anti-social behaviour. Each project is managed by a multi-agency and community-based committee, which is responsible for the strategic direction of the project.
In June 1991, the Ballymun action youth project was established under the acronym BAY. The community-based committee established a limited company, trading as BAY Limited, to act as a management agency to manage the project. In February 2003, this limited company was wound up and the project closed. The community relations section, in conjunction with local Garda management and in the context of available resources, is currently considering the establishment of a new Garda youth diversion project in the Ballymun area.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.