Vol. 415 No. 9
66 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Education if he will seek an alternative site, other than the present planned Finglas site, for the proposed young female detention centre; if his attention has been drawn to the many valid objections to this site by a wide representation of professional groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am satisfied that the site selected for the proposed new centre for young female offenders at Finglas represents the most suitable location available and I have no plans to seek an alternative.
I am aware of the concerns to which the Deputy refers. Indeed, my predecessor and officials of my Department have had several meetings with the parties involved. Arising from these discussions it was evident that much of the concern expressed was based on a misunderstanding of what is proposed.
In particular, matters such as the adequacy of the site and possible interference with the existing boys' centre in Finglas were raised. My Department is satisfied that the site in question is fully adequate for the proposed development. I can also assure the Deputy that the nature of the new development will be such that it will not interfere in the proper operation of the existing Finglas Children's Centres.
The new girls' centre will have totally separate management, staffing and operating procedures to the boys' centre.
