As many as 1,000 children are being dragged into criminal behaviour by adult gangs and crime networks, a report which surveys Garda Juvenile Liaison Officers has estimated.

CONFIRMED cases of child abuse increased by 20% over a three-year period, according to a report launched yesterday by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Barry Andrews.

ONE of the country’s main treatment services for child and teenage drug users has seen a 40% increase in referrals amid growing concern over products available from head shops.