€1.7m For North Dublin Youth Facilities

News of a €1.7 million fund for the development of youth facilities in Dublin's north inner city, has been described a demonstrating the government's "commitment to our young people who are most at risk."

The funding, delivered by the Minister for Children & Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, as part of Young People's Facilities and Services Funding (YPFSF) will be used to develop sport and recreational facilities in disadvantaged areas where significant drug problems exists.

Minister of State for European Affairs, Paschal Donohoe, said: "The provision of €1.7 million for youth facilities in Dublin’s North Inner City will enable community groups to more effectively direct young people in the area away from the dangers of substance abuse, helping them to build more stable and secure futures.

"The funds, which will be delivered in two tranches across the year, will go to Ballybough Youth Project (€52,369), Ballybough Youth & Community Centre (€124,181), Eastwall/Northport Youth Development Group (€111,238), Bradog (€403,805), St Agatha’s/SWAN (€387,712), Stoneybatter Youth Service (incl. O'Devaney Gardens) (€316,149), the Cavan Centre (€179,976) and Adventure Sports Project (€124,494). This total of €1,699,924 can be used to renovate old buildings in need of repair, or build new ones; fund purpose-built youth centres to provide activities and a focal point for young people, or to supplement staffing requirements to ensure that services can be adequately delivered.

"The aim of the YPFSF is to attract 10-21 year olds in disadvantaged communities who are most at risk of drug and associated social problems. We owe it to all of our children to ensure that they get the best start in life possible. That is why targeting whatever funds are available in this way is the absolute best use of resources.

"I am particularly delighted that this money has been earmarked for Dublin’s North Inner City as no new applicants to the scheme are being considered due to budgetary constraints. I have no doubt that the organisations in receipt of the funding will put it to good use for the benefit of those availing of the services and the wider community."

(MH)