20th March 2002
74. Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science the places and supports in place for young offenders; the number of residential and remand places available; the staffing of same; the annual costs for the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8322/02]
81. Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education and Science the total number of places available and their location for young offenders; and the current number of vacancies in each case. [9202/02]
Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods): I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 81 together.
My Department has statutory responsibility for the provision of residential places for children up to the age of 16 years who are referred by the courts. There are five young offender centres under the aegis of my Department.*
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Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.