asked the Minister for Health the number of places available for homeless youth in our cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Homeless Youth.
74.
The residential centres for children, run by voluntary organisations throughout the country, have traditionally provided accommodation for children and young people who were homeless. There are approximately 900 places in such centres. The Government, since taking office have been concerned at the problem of disadvantaged youth and in particular the problem of young people out of home. A sum of almost £4 million was set aside late last year out of the national lottery fund for major developments for those youth particularly at risk such as young homeless, young travellers and substance abusers.
The Minister for Education established an interdepartmental committee with representatives of the Departments of Education, Health, Environment, Labour, Justice, Social Welfare and Roinn na Gaeltachta to advise on the disbursement of the total sum available. Over £1 million has since been paid out in respect of services for young homeless in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. This new funding will provide additional residential and training places and facilitate integration of voluntary and statutory services at local level.