asked the Minister for Education if he has noted the remarks attributed to a district justice at Kilmainham Court, Dublin on 17th October, 1975 regarding the lack of a detention centre for young persons who were being remanded on charges of stealing motor cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Young Persons' Detention Centre.
30.
I have seen the newspaper reports on the justice's remarks. Whilst I would not wish to comment on the particular case which was before the court, I should say that the Finglas Children's Centre provides remand and assessment facilities for approximately 360 boys a year on a residential basis and that it has been functioning successfully.
I find the Minister's reply somewhat misleading. He mentioned the Finglas Children's Centre which he stated provides for approximately 360 boys. That may be so but at the moment there are 78 youngsters who are living rough in this city. They cannot get shelter. Surely it is an indictment of the Government and all of us that this should happen in this affluent city. Could the Minister arrange for some temporary accommodation for the youngsters while on remand? This was the gist of the remarks of the district justice.
As the Deputy will know, the whole question of child welfare is being investigated. The Government will no doubt take note of recommendations.
Will the Minister try to get the Government to take note of the need for urgency in this matter? There are 78 youngsters who will be sleeping in cellars tonight. The Minister has said that they are considering a report but we want action now.
The Deputy will get action very soon.