asked the Minister for Justice how many probation officers operated in the Dublin area for (a) 1945 and (b) 1967.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Probation Officers.
31.
Seven paid probation officers operated in Dublin in 1945 and six, including a probation administration officer, in 1967. A vacancy which existed in 1967 has now been filled.
The law provides for the utilisation of the services of voluntary social workers in societies which are formally recognised by the Minister for Justice and in that context the members of particular Dublin branches of the Legion of Mary and the Salvation Army are available to act as probation officers.
Would the Minister not agree that there is a need for many more fulltime probation officers in the Dublin area and would he take steps to have the position examined and appointments made? While the efforts of all the voluntary workers are most praiseworthy and helpful, this problem is of such a nature that it requires professional attention. In the light of that, will the Minister consider appointing an adequate number of fulltime probation officers?
From what I have seen, I am not satisfied with the service but the main weakness, as I see it, is the overall inspiration or organisation of what is there. That was the complaint made to me. I am looking into the matter.