asked the Minister for Justice if he is satisfied that the number of probation officers in Dublin city is adequate for the number of children under their care; and, if not, when he proposes to increase this number.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin City Probation Officers.
Last January I appointed an officer of my Department to examine the probation and aftercare service, with a view to identifying the requirements and making recommendations. He has submitted a comprehensive report and this is at present under consideration.
(Cavan): If the Minister has the information perhaps he would say how many probation officers there are outside the city of Dublin, if any?
I have no information on this at the moment but I gave information on this matter either yesterday or the day before.
Has the Minister said it is his intention to increase the number of probation officers?
I have had this matter specially examined and I have now received a report on all the implications of it and this report is at present being studied. It may entail appointing more probation officers but I do not want to go into the matter now.