Vol. 489 No. 6
726 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 423 of 24 March 1998, the person concerned has again been granted temporary release; if the gardaí have indicated their opposition or otherwise to his continued temporary release; and if the gardaí in the East Wall area of Dublin 3 were consulted in the matter. [8874/98]
As indicated to the Deputy in my earlier reply, the home leave programme for the boy in question was suspended on 20 March 1998 pending receipt of a report from the gardaí on the boy's behaviour while on home leave. I understand that the management of Oberstown Boy's Centre have since had discussions with officers at the boy's local Garda station regarding his behaviour. I understand that these inquiries indicated no evidence of unacceptable behaviour on the boy's part, other than vague suspicions of poor company keeping. I further understand that the gardaí confirmed that the boy had not incurred any charges, nor was it intended to prefer any charges against him.
I am also advised that the centre's own staff, who monitor the boy's behaviour while on home leave, and the probation and welfare officer involved are not aware of any improper behaviour on the boy's part while on home leave. I am, however, advised that due to his late return from recent home leave, the boy's leave programme has again been suspended and will be reviewed later this month. Such suspensions are normal practice where a child's behaviour falls below acceptable standards.
