Govt to create strategy on youth facilities
Young people are to become the focus of a new Government strategy, following a recent survey that showed they have almost nowhere to socialise.
The recent survey of teenagers commissioned by Children's Minister Brian Lenihan showed they have nowhere available that is safe and affordable in the evening.
The lack of recreational facilities available is thought to be linked to the high instances of binge-drinking and drug-taking here.
The Government is said to be committed to funding a number of youth cafes.
John Fitzsimons manages one such café, the Gaf, in Galway and says it is hugely popular.
"We could have anything up to 60 or 70 in after school", he said.
"Saturdays tend to be very busy - we'd get anything between 150 and 200 young people coming through the door."
