The statutory framework relating to young offenders and the Garda Diversion Programme is set out in the Children Act 2001. The operation of the Garda Diversion Programme is supported by the nationwide network of Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs). There are now 105 of these projects in place nationally.
GYDPs are funded by the Irish Youth Justice Service (IYJS) and each project is managed locally by a Community Based Organisation (CBO). Funding is allocated under multi-annual funding agreements with the CBOs. From 2015, GYDPs have been co-funded under the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning of the European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020
The funding provided to Garda Youth Diversion Projects from 2010 -2107 and up to August 2018 is set out as follows:
2010- €11.6m
2011- €11.3m
2012- €10.9m
2013- €11.3m
2014- €11.3m
2015- €11.3m
2016- €13m
2017- €13.3m
Jan- Aug 2018- €9.8m.