A Government strategy designed to meet the recreational needs of those between the ages of 12 and 18 was unveiled in Dublin today.
Teenspace - National Recreation Policy for Young Peoplewas developed in response to concerns raised by teenagers and parents over the lack of recreation facilities for young people.
The policy aims to provide a 10-year framework for the promotion of recreational opportunities for the 12-18 age group.
Underpinning the policy, which was developed in three phases with input from several Government departments and agencies, is the principle that the needs of young people should be met with publicly funded recreational opportunities.
Speaking today, Minister of State for Children Brendan Smith said: "Teenspace promotes new initiatives and the need for interagency co-operation but also outlines a strategic approach to existing investment".
"To invest wisely in the future, we need to involve young people in helping us to plan and design the facilities, which are most relevant to them," he added.
"The launch of Teenspace is an important first step and provides a framework for developing recreational facilities that meet the needs of an ever-changing population of young people," the Minister said.
Mr Smith also announced an additional €400,000 investment in Comhairle na nÓg this year, which he said "will help in giving children and young people a stronger voice in local decision-making".