Foróige launches Youth Diversion Project

A NEWLY merged L.I.F.E, Youth Diversion Project (YDP) has been launched in Rathkeale. The YDP is managed by Foróige, the National Youth Organisation, and has a team of staff across Limerick who work with some of the most vulnerable and at-risk young people.

YDPs are community-based projects that support youth development to divert young people from becoming involved in anti-social or criminal behaviour. The project was launched by Minister of State, Niall Collins.

“This project, by amalgamating Rathkeale and West Limerick’s Youth Diversion projects, now provides extensive coverage across Limerick and will improve our communities right across our county by supporting at-risk young people and diverting them away from a life of crime,” said Minister Collins.

READ MORE: Substantial amount of money stolen from Limerick woman's bank by scammers

Chairperson of L.I.F.E YDP, superintendent Michael Fleming, said: “It has been truly wonderful to hear young people in the community speak about the positive impact the project has had on their lives.

“The YDP provides so many opportunities for young people to grow into active citizens, and the impact of the programme is also seen in how the relationship between Gardai and participants has developed through engagement in programmes and activities over the course of the programme.”

Limerick’s original YDP was established in 2008 and covered Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale. In 2017, Rathkeale YDP, covering Rathkeale, Askeaton and Croom was established.