asked the Minister for Education if he proposes to take any steps to ensure greater youth participation in eliminating vandalism.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Elimination of Vandalism.
74.
The grants which have been allocated to youth organisations in recent years have helped them to increase membership and will continue to encourage these organisations to expand their membership in every way possible.
As part of a study which I am currently making of the entire youth scene I am giving special attention to ways in which youth activities might have a direct effect on the social problems which can contribute to juvenile delinquency. As regards youth participation in the elimination of vandalism, the Deputy will appreciate that young people have the same responsibilities as everybody else in reporting incidents of crime to the Garda.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware—and I have had experience of this in Crumlin and Ballyfermot—that even if it is in relation to the planting of trees, if you can get youth to take a direct interest in the development of their own area vandalism goes down to a very low figure?
I agree with the Deputy. The work which the youth organisations are doing in a positive way is a valuable contribution.
If the Parliamentary Secretary has the money at his disposal will he take a bus load of surburban children to County Cavan to learn how to look after their county?
I might swap them on the way through County Meath.