A bad way to ensure good behaviour
In the second stage Dáil debate a number of Fianna Fáil backbenchers expressed significant reservations about the proposed orders.
It was extremely interesting to note the comments of deputies Pat Carey and John McGuinness on the proposed ASBOs.
Mr McGuinness condemned them as a ‘blunt instrument,’ while Mr Carey emphasised the need to implement the Children’s Act as the main response to juvenile justice issues.
It now appears that there is only a limited appetite for these measures among our politicians.
Justice Minister Michael McDowell himself did not even see fit to come into the Dáil for his own bill.
The effect of Anti-Social Behaviour Orders will be to criminalise young people and totally undermine the Children’s Act.
It is welcome that at least some politicians in the main parties are willing to put their heads above the parapet on this issue.
The minister for justice should now withdraw this extreme proposal and engage in proper consultation with those who deal on a daily basis with young people and children.
Diarmuid Kearney
Chief Executive
National Youth Federation
20 Lower Dominick St
Dublin 1
