Probation chief backs youth bail scheme trying to keep 'as many young people out of the custodial system'

A new bail scheme for juveniles charged with a criminal offence is trying to keep “as many young people out of the custodial system” as possible, the head of the Probation Service has said.

Vivian Geiran said he welcomed the multi-agency project, which brings together Oberstown Children’s Detention Centre, the Courts and Probation, as well as an external organisation.

As reported in the Irish Examiner on Monday, the scheme, due to start by the end of this month, will begin with five to eight children, but could expand to 20 within a year.