88. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice the youth diversion projects that are in place in Cork; the programmes that have been funded over the past three years; the programmes that will be announced this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17889/23]

Minister of State at the Department of Justice James Browne: As the Deputy may be aware, Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) are community based, multi-agency youth crime prevention initiatives which primarily seek to divert young people who have been, or are at risk of becoming, involved in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour.

A top priority is the expansion and deepening of the services offered to young people by the Youth Diversion Projects, which are fully funded by my Department. These projects provide an invaluable support to complement the work of An Garda Síochána in addressing youth crime and protect local communities.

Youth Diversion Projects not only divert young people away from crime, but also work to foster young people’s talents, interests and personal development.

There are currently over 100 YDPs in operation and the intention of this year’s Justice Plan, under the Youth Justice Strategy, is to provide full geographic availability of youth diversion services throughout the State by end-2023. 

I can inform the Deputy that there are currently 13 Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) operating in Co. Cork, and they have been allocated a total funding allocation of over €2.5 million for this year. I have provided the full list of projects based in Cork and the funding allocated to each project for the years requested as an attachment. 

A public call for proposals from Community Based Organisations (CBOs) to expand YDP coverage in Cork has just closed and applications are now being considered by my officials. 

*Allocation includes funding for Local Drugs and Alcohol Task Force worker attached to the YDP.

~2021 Allocation includes once off capital grant

^2022 Allocation includes once off capital grant