New youth diversion project aims to change young lives
The new program is based in Nenagh and Killaloe
The project will operate from two bases in Nenagh and Killaloe and serve a catchment area with a population of approximately 62,750 people.
Fianna Fáil TD for North Tipperary, Deputy Ryan O’Meara, has said the launch of the Derg Youth Diversion Project will deliver real, practical supports for young people and families across the area.
The project, officially launched by Minister of State Niall Collins, will serve communities across North Tipperary and East Clare, with a base in Nenagh. It brings together existing services while expanding supports on the ground for young people at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.
Deputy O’Meara said: “The key here is stepping in early and making sure young people have the support they need before things escalate. If that support is there at the right time, it can change the direction a young person is going in.
“Having this based in Nenagh really matters. It means families and young people in North Tipperary can get help locally, without having to travel or try to navigate services further away.
“These projects work. They keep young people connected to school and to their community, and help stop them being drawn into trouble in the first place.”
The Derg Youth Diversion Project, operated by Foróige, will deliver targeted interventions including early supports for younger children and dedicated family support services.
Deputy O’Meara added: “This isn’t just about reacting when something goes wrong. It’s about stepping in early and working with families, schools and communities so young people have better options.
“It also makes a real difference locally. You see it in communities where these projects are in place, less anti-social behaviour and more young people heading in the right direction.
“We need to keep building on that and make sure any young person who needs this kind of support can get it.”
The project will work closely with An Garda Síochána, local schools and community organisations to deliver a coordinated response across the region.
Deputy O’Meara concluded: “This is a really positive step for North Tipperary. It’s about backing young people and supporting communities in a way that actually works.”