Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:587 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will approve a project, under the oasis scheme for the Listowel-north Kerry area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13105/02]
Written Answers. - Oasis Scheme.
I understand that the Deputy is referring to an application to establish a project under the Garda youth diversion scheme.
All applications for Garda youth diversion projects must first be approved and recommended by the chief superintendent, Garda community relations section, who, in turn, channels them to my Department, where they are further examined before a final decision is made.
Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of such projects, from 12 in 1997 to 64 at present, a process made possible, in part, by funding under the National Development Plan, 2000-2006. The locations of the new projects were decided upon according to local needs, prioritised by the Garda authorities, in conjunction with my Department.
I remain committed to the provision of diver sionary services for young people at risk. However, I must also have regard to financial constraints. In this respect, further projects can only be established if and when resources allow and according to the prioritisation of local needs on a national basis. I assure the Deputy that the application for the Listowel-north Kerry area will remain under review in this context.