Teen research highlights lack of recreational facilities

A majority of young people believe there is a serious lack of recreational facilities where they can spend time with their friends, according to research commissioned by the Ombudsman for Children.

The study was carried out among more than 700 teenagers in east Cork, many of whom complained that there was nothing for them to do and they were frequently bored.

Some said the lack of adequate places to socialise was driving them to drink and depression.

One of the study's authors, Mary McGrath, says what teenagers are looking for is very simple - places to hang out and chat to their friends.