Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018
512. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of funding the Garda youth diversion projects in 2017; the way in which that funding is distributed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15161/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe statutory framework relating to young offenders and the Garda Diversion Programme is set out in the Children Act 2001. The operation of the Garda Diversion Programme is supported by the nationwide network of Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs). There are now 105 of these projects in place nationally.
Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs) are funded by my Department and each project is managed locally by a Community Based Organisation (CBO). Funding is allocated under multi-annual funding agreements with the CBOs. From 2015, GYDPs have been co-funded under the Programme for Employability Inclusion and Learning of the European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020. In 2017, GYDPs received a total of €14m in funding from my Department.
As the Deputy may be aware, my Department is obliged to carry out a call for proposals process during 2018 in relation to the provision of Garda Youth Diversion Project (GYDP) services generally, 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. The call for proposals provides the opportunity to enhance the range of supports available for diversion work, and will ensure availability throughout the State of GYDP services.
