asked the Minister for Justice the steps, if any, he proposes to take to strengthen the juvenile liaison scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
43.
Written Answers. - Juvenile Liaison Scheme.
32.
asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to difficulties in the operation of the juvenile liaison officers scheme in so far as funding is concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 43 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the working group they set up to review the operation of the juvenile liaison officer scheme with a view to improving its effectiveness is at present preparing an interim report for submission to the commissioner. Pending receipt of this report and a review of the group's recommendations in the matter, the Garda authorities are not in a position to say what changes, if any, will be made in the operation of the scheme.
I am not aware of any difficulties in relation to funding of the scheme.