Plea over at risk young people

Organisations were today urged to work together to protect young people at risk.

A new report highlighted how some youngsters in Dublin’s inner city may be falling through the safety net due to the lack of co-ordination between service providers.

The Young People at Risk (YPAR) Initiative Strategic Plan also found that despite the provision of a broad range of services, the needs of some youths in need are still not being met.

Launched today by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, the report proposes major changes that would affect marginalised comunities across Ireland.

Focusing on the capital’s north east inner city, which has experienced some of the worst effects of deprivation over the past 30 years, it called for joint thinking and action from government departments, statutory organisations and community groups, the pooling of existing resources, and opening facilities for young people at evnings and weekends.

“We are all aware of the many risks and problems affecting children and young people today,” said Mr Ahern. “Improved outcomes for young people require more investment but that alone is not sufficient. We need to be strategic an effective in planning and using the resources available.

“Getting different organisations to work together effectively is not a new problem. Nor is it a problem that is unique to Ireland.”

Mr Ahern noted underage drinking, binge drinking and drug misuse as some of the real risks for young people nationwide and highlighted the establishment of the new Office of the Minister for Children as a serious attempt to achieve a more joined-up approach to the delivery of services to children and young people.

Commending youth workers for their commitment to improving the lives of children and young people, he remembered on special lady who touched the hearts of hundreds of youngsters across the inner city throughout her teaching career.

Mr Ahern paid tribute to the late Maire Buckley, 61, from Donnycarney, who died recently saving her daughter from the path of a stolen bus on the Naas Road, Dublin.

“Maire had devoted her life to the young people in Dublin’s inner city, particularly through her work in the education system,” he said.

"Her dedication, commitment and passion for education, and for assisting childrn from disadvantaged areas, were inspirational and showed a great example to us all. She will be sadly missed here in the local community.”