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. They are a key support to An Garda Síochána in the operation of the statutory Garda youth diversion programme under the Children Act 2001.

Funding for YDPs and other youth justice measures has increased by 67 per cent in three years, from €18 million in 2020 to just over €30 million in 2023.

The four new YDPs brings the government closer to achieving its target of having full national coverage of YDPs. Another two YDPs are needed to achieve national rollout, which the government said will be announced “over the coming months”.

There are currently 106 YDPs across the State and the additional four will bring that total to 110.

These include eight YDPs covering the Dublin city centre area which work with those between 12–17 years old and eight to 11 years old, as well as providing family supports. These eight projects have received more than €3.2 million in total funding this year.

Justice minister Helen McEntee said: “I am committed to building stronger, safer communities and, while high visibility policing is important, I know this goal cannot be achieved by policing alone. We must also look at wider solutions to ensure our communities are safe places for people to live, work and bring up their families in.

“By improving outcomes for young people at risk of a life of criminality we can make a lasting difference to the quality of life not just for young people, but for the entire community.

“The funding we provide for youth diversion is always guided by the best available research and expert evidence to keep young people away from crime.

“My colleague minister Browne is doing excellent work in implementing the Youth Justice Strategy and we are both determined to see full national coverage for YDPs over the coming months.”

James Browne, minister of state with responsibility for youth justice, said: “The selection of these new projects is another important step towards the achievement of the Youth Justice Strategy’s commitment to having YDP services available in all areas across the State.

“I’ve been lucky to visit YDPs the length and breadth of the country and have seen the positive impacts that they have on young people and local communities, something which was highlighted in the recent YDP evaluation.

“Youth justice interventions are not about young people avoiding punishment or consequences. They are about recognising that many young people who stray from the proper path need support and direction to get their lives back on track.

“I want to congratulate all those involved in the four successful projects. Every euro we invest in our children’s future will pay back in spades and, when operational, these new Youth Diversion Projects will offer the type of early interventions and supports that can put at-risk young people on a better path.”