Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 March 2018
193. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason he plans to outsource the juvenile deterrent program that is being operated effectively by community groups and which he is planning to outsource to private enterprise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11069/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI take it that the Deputy is referring to the Garda Youth Diversion Programme, the operation of which is supported by the nationwide network of Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs).
I can inform the Deputy that my Department is obliged to carry out an open call for proposals process during 2018 in relation to the provision of GYDP services, to fully comply with requirements related to the co-funding of projects by the European Social Fund Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020.
GYDPs are currently managed by a range of Community Based Organisations under the terms of Funding Agreements with my Department. It is open to the same organisations to apply under the Call for Proposals for future provision of the service. The Call for Proposals will allow for applications from any not-for-profit organisation with the necessary capacity and experience provide the required service.
While certain aspects of the new service model have been determined, my Department is currently undertaking an extensive consultation process with all relevant stakeholders with a view to informing further development of the model in advance of the call being issued.
GYDPs deliver a valuable service to young offenders and provide an effective and essential support to the operation of the statutory Garda Diversion Programme by An Garda Síochána. The call for proposals provides the opportunity to update and improve the operating model of a very valuable service. The new model will ensure state-wide coverage of GYDP services for young people who have committed a crime or engaged in anti-social behaviour, which does not exist at present.
