asked the Minister for Justice if he will consider the desirability of appointing a lady probation officer for Cork.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lady Probation Officer.
As I have stated in reply to previous questions, I am of opinion that the best solution of the probation problem outside Dublin is that voluntary organisations which are interested in the welfare of juveniles should undertake the supervision of juvenile probationers.
In Cork City the local council of the St. Vincent de Paul Society was declared a recognised society under Section 7 of the Criminal Justice Administration Act, 1914, in April, 1943, and it has undertaken the supervision of male juvenile probationers. I understand that a new society known as the Cork Catholic Social Supervision Society has recently been formed and that it is the intention of that society to apply for recognition so as to enable it to undertake the supervision of female probationers and male probationers under 12 years of age. If such an application is made to me I shall be very glad to grant recognition to the society, and I hope that this will solve the problem of female probationers in Cork City.
I might mention that Section 7 of the Criminal Justice Administration Act, 1914, provides that recognised societies may receive financial assistance from the State towards their expenses.
Will the lady probation officer suggested in the Minister's reply have statutory authority?
Mr. Boland
The recognised society may get a grant from the Government, and that can be applied to the purpose of paying the probation officer if the society so wishes.
Will that lady have the same powers as her predecessor had under the previous regime?
Mr. Boland
Yes, once the society is recognised.