POINT Youth Diversion Project Opens in Thurles; as Youth Diversion Reaches Every Community in Ireland.
Minister of State Ms Catherine Ardagh has officially opened the Providing Opportunities in North Tipperary Youth Diversion Project, known as POINT YDP, in Thurles.
The project will support young people and families across Thurles, Templemore and surrounding areas in central Tipperary.
The opening marks an important milestone for youth justice in Ireland, with Youth Diversion supports now available to children and young people nationwide. There are now 92 Youth Diversion Projects and 4 Targeted Youth Diversion Projects operating across the State.
Youth Diversion Projects play a vital role in helping young people move away from anti-social or criminal behaviour and towards positive opportunities, personal development, education, training and stronger community connections.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Ms Ardagh highlighted the life-changing impact these projects can have for young people, their families and their wider communities. She said diversion gives young people the chance to access support early, build confidence, make positive choices and avoid the long-term consequences that can come from entering the criminal justice system.
POINT YDP is administered by Foróige, Ireland’s largest youth organisation, which delivers youth services and projects across the country.
The Government has also confirmed continued investment in youth justice services, with total funding for Youth Justice measures rising to €43 million this year.
This new project is a welcome and significant development for North Tipperary, ensuring that young people in the area can access the guidance, support and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
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