Scheme to divert young offenders from crime and drugs ‘should be extended’

A TRIAL scheme to divert young offenders away from crime and drugs should be extended and properly funded, according to a report published today.

The study said two full-time staff need to be employed to the novel programme, which operates in Dublin’s north-inner city.

The juvenile ‘arrest referral’ pilot project launched by Minister of State Noel Ahern, who is responsible for the national drugs strategy, is a ground-breaking initiative between the gardaí and the health services.