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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jan 1983

Vol. 339 No. 4

Written Answers. - Galway Boys' Training Centre.

958.

asked the Minister for Justice if he will meet a deputation from the Merchants Road and District Residents Association to discuss the proposed establishment of a boys' training centre at Merchants Road, Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Limerick East): There has been a long-recognised need in Galway city for a training centre for young people in the 16 to 21 years age group who are on probation for minor offences. A voluntary management committee was formed locally with a view to running such a centre in association with my Department's Probation and Welfare Service. Early in 1982 the Department purchased the premises at 15 Lower Merchants Road, Galway, which will be leased to the local committee for a nominal rent. The committee have plans prepared for the adaptation and renovation of the premises. This work is to be carried out partly by a local contractor and partly through AnCO's Community Youth Training Programme.

I am aware that Galway Corporation at their meeting in October last passed a resolution indicating concern at the siting of the proposed workshop in Lower Merchants Road and calling for its location elsewhere. Subsequently a suggestion was made that some of the councillors might wish to visit and examine the operation of the probation workshop in Ballinasloe, which is similar to the proposed centre in Galway and which has been operating successfully since 1978 without adverse reaction from local residents. This suggestion has been taken up by the corporation and arrangements have been made for three councillors and some representatives of the residents to visit the Ballinasloe centre in early February.

I will consider the question of my meeting a deputation from the corporation and/or the residents in the light of the outcome of the visit to Ballinasloe.

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