A senior official in the Department of Justice has been appointed as National Director of a new body to oversee the State's treatment of young offenders.
Michelle Shannon will head up the Irish Youth Justice Service (IYJS), which was set up following a Government decision last December. Her appointment was announced by Minister for Justice Michael McDowell this afternoon, following an interview process.
"She brings considerable talent and experience to the position of National Director. I know that under her vigorous leadership and direction the Irish Youth Justice Service will develop effective responses to the challenges of offending by young people," said Mr McDowell.
Ms Shannon, a graduate of UCD and DIT, has worked in a number of senior positions since joining the Department of Justice in 1994. She has worked in the areas of crime policy as well as policy in relation to prisons and probation Policy.
For the past three years she has been head of the Department's human resources division.
The IYJS will be responsible for the development and oversight of youth justice policy and the management of all youth detention facilities in the State.