asked the Minister for Justice if he will state how many juveniles were (1) prosecuted; (2) convicted; (3) placed on probation; (4) committed to industrial schools; (5) committed to reformatories; (6) committed to Borstal institution, in each year from 1932 to date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Punishment of Juveniles.
asked the Minister for Justice if he will state how many children were committed to industrial schools, for offences under the School Attendance Act in each of the years from 1932 to date.
I propose to take questions Nos. 3 and 4 together. The compilation of the figures in the form requested by the Deputy will take a considerable time. I shall let the Deputy know when the figures are ready.
Arising out of that reply, is the Minister aware that a very grave emergency exists in this matter, and that the number of children committed in the Dublin District Court area to reformatories and industrial schools during the last two or three years has increased to an appalling degree, and will he take steps to inquire at once as to whether the interpretation of the law and regulations by the Dublin District Court is in accordance with the outlook of the Government?
That is a separate question.
In regard to this matter, a grave public emergency exists. It appears to many persons that children are being literally rail-roaded to jail in the Dublin District Court area. The matter is giving rise to the most profound alarm, and great public anxiety exists.
Surely that is a separate question?
It is a separate question.
I have asked for the numbers and I am told they are not yet available, and the House is about to adjourn. I apprehend that the numbers are such as to cause the gravest public concern. While these numbers are being compiled, will the Minister examine the situation with special reference to the Dublin District Court area so that, if necessary, proper representations may be made with a view to correcting the at present apparently grossly excessive committals?
That is a separate question.
If it is, I do not wish to press it further, but will the Minister take some steps to relieve public anxiety in regard to this matter at once? It will be sufficient if the Minister will say he will inquire into the matter himself at once.
The Deputy may be sure that the matter will have proper attention.
And will be looked into at once?
Yes.