Ireland’s youth justice network has reached a significant milestone with the opening of the POINT Youth Diversion Project in Thurles. Announced via gov.ie, the development means youth diversion supports are now available to children and young people in every part of the country, extending a key national commitment led by the Department of Justice and supported by An Garda Síochána.
The newly opened Providing Opportunities in North Tipperary (POINT) Youth Diversion Project serves Thurles, Templemore and surrounding parts of central Tipperary. With this launch, the national network now includes 92 Youth Diversion Projects and four Targeted Youth Diversion Projects, giving full geographic coverage for referrals connected to the Garda Youth Diversion Programme.
How gov.ie Signals a Nationwide Milestone in Youth Diversion
The announcement on gov.ie highlights more than just the opening of a new service location. It confirms that the Youth Justice Strategy 2021–2027 has delivered on one of its most important goals: ensuring that diversion supports are accessible no matter where a young person lives.
These community-based projects are designed to work with children and teenagers, mainly aged 12 to 17, who are involved in or at risk of anti-social or criminal behaviour. Over time, the model has expanded to include:
- early intervention for children aged 8 to 11
- family support services
- specialist responses for harder-to-reach young people
- intensive supports for serious and prolific offending cases
This broader approach reflects a shift in Justice and Social Protection policy toward prevention, rehabilitation and stronger community outcomes rather than punishment alone.
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Why Youth Diversion Matters for Communities
According to the gov.ie statement, Youth Diversion Projects help keep young people away from deeper involvement in the criminal justice system, the courts and the long-term consequences that can affect work, travel and Education opportunities. The programme works closely with An Garda Síochána, particularly through the Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau and Juvenile Liaison Officers, to connect suitable participants with local support.
The value of this model lies in its practical, local focus. Youth justice workers support young people in building confidence, reconnecting with school or training, and improving family relationships. In many cases, the interventions also strengthen community safety by tackling the reasons behind offending behaviour before patterns become entrenched.
This aligns with wider public service priorities seen across gov.ie, including Health, Children/Disability/Equality, Further and Higher Education, and Enterprise, Trade and Employment, where early support often leads to better long-term outcomes.
Key benefits of the diversion model
- Reduces the likelihood of repeat offending
- Offers structured support close to home
- Encourages education, training and employment pathways
- Helps families engage in positive change
- Supports safer and more resilient communities
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Funding, Delivery and What Comes Next
The gov.ie release also underlines the scale of government backing behind the programme. Budget 2026 included an additional €7.3 million in core funding for youth justice measures, bringing total investment this year to €43 million. That level of Finance support shows the Government’s continued focus on early intervention as part of broader Justice planning.
POINT YDP is operated by Foróige, one of Ireland’s largest youth organisations, which already administers 30 Youth Diversion Projects nationwide. The service is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, reflecting both national and cross-sector commitment to youth support.
Looking ahead, the Department intends to develop a successor to the Youth Justice Strategy 2021–2027, with stakeholder consultations due in 2027. That next phase is likely to involve further input from agencies across gov.ie, including community, policing and family support bodies.
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What This Means for Ireland
The latest gov.ie announcement marks a meaningful moment in the evolution of youth justice in Ireland. Full nationwide coverage means every child referred through the diversion system can now access local supports designed to guide them away from offending and toward better life chances. In practical terms, it is a major step for Justice, communities and families alike — and a sign that prevention-led policy can deliver tangible results on the ground.
