Minister of State with responsibility for Youth Justice, James Browne, has invited proposals from community and youth service organisations to establish new Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) in South Monaghan.
Minister Browne paid a visit recently to Monaghan's NYP and seen first-hand the positive impact they have on both the young people they welcome through their doors and the wider communities in which they are based.
The proposed new YDPs will be responsible for providing family support, early intervention supports for 8-11 year olds, working with harder to reach young people and supporting schools to retain children with challenging behaviour.
Commenting on the move, Senator Robbie Gallagher said it is "vital" that young people at risk of going down the wrong path are given every opportunity to meet their full potential.
He added that Youth Diversion Projects (YDPSs) not only divert young people away from crime, but also work to foster their talents, interests and personal development.