The Government has announced more than €13 million in funding aimed at diverting young people from drug abuse, writes Suzanne Breen.
Several youth and community centres will be built in Cabra, Finglas, Donnycarney, Darndale, Clondalkin and Tallaght in Dublin.
Community centres will also be built in Ballywaltrim in Bray and Knocknaheeny in Cork.
The announcement was made yesterday by Mr Noel Ahern, Minister of State for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, who has responsibility for the national drugs strategy.
The funding has been made under the Young Persons Facilities and Services Fund, which was set up six years ago.
It aims to attract at-risk young people living in disadvantaged areas into activities to divert them from the dangers of drug misuse.
Mr Ahern said: "It is vital we continue to invest in facilities and services in areas worst affected by drugs if we are to stop the flow of another generation of young people into a life of addiction.
"Many of these areas had virtually nothing in the way of facilities up to now, and very little in the way of activities to offer young people.
"The facilities being supported have the potential to become active and vibrant places in the communities, where young people can find positive alternatives to drugs."
Sen Cyprian Brady of Fianna Fáil said: "For years I have worked with many projects in Dublin's inner city and have witnessed first-hand the sickening consequences of drug abuse among our young people.
"This cash boost will significantly contribute towards the protection of disadvantaged teenagers, and I warmly welcome it.
"This money will go towards building centres and opening facilities which will offer young people positive alternatives to drugs."