New Youth Diversion Project for North Tipperary - O'Meara

North Tipperary Fianna Fáil TD, Ryan O'Meara, has welcomed news that a new Youth Diversion Project (YDP) has been announced for North Tipperary.

Following an open application and appraisal process, Foróige have been chosen to operate the projects.
Deputy O'Meara said, “Youth Justice interventions are about recognising that many young people who stray from the proper path simply need support and direction to turn their lives around.

“Fianna Fáil in Government is committed to ensuring that children who have become involved in criminality, and those at risk of becoming involved in criminality, have the tools they need to make good choices and turn away from offending behaviour.

”Through the Programme For Government and the Youth Justice Strategy, we are committed to improving outcomes for young people at risk of a life of criminality through investment in youth justice services.

“We can make a lasting difference to the quality of life not just for young people, but for the entire community.''

The announcement of the new YDPs will achieve the target as set out in the Youth Justice Strategy of full national coverage of YDPs, ensuring that a service is available to every young person who needs it.

There are currently 100 YDPs throughout the State, including four new projects which were established in 2023, which are now up and running.

Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) work with young people at risk of crime and anti-social behaviour to divert them away from criminal behaviour and towards better life outcomes.

Funding for YDPs and other Youth Justice measures have increased substantially in recent years, from €18 million in 2020, to a total allocation of just over €33 million in Budget 2025. Youth Diversion Projects are co-funded by the Irish Taxpayers and the European Social Fund, as part of the ESF+ Programme 2021-2027.