Security fears over escapes from juvenile centre

SERIOUS concerns have been raised about security at a high support unit for troubled children after it was revealed 17 juveniles absconded last year.

Despite numerous assurances, health authorities have admitted there have been regular incidents at the units, which are housed at St Stephen’s Hospital in Glanmire, Co Cork.

In June 2000, the Southern Health Board denied girls were escaping from the Gleann Álainn unit. However, following concerns expressed by senior gardaí, they admitted a number of cases.