Today in the Dail I raised the need for improved youth services in Kildare including the need for a dedicated Youth Officer for the County.

Despite having one of the fastest growing populations in the Country and a higher than average youth population we are one of the few Counties that does not have its own dedicated Youth Officer.  At present here is a shared Youth Officer between Kildare and Wicklow.

I also raised the need for more family resource centres in Kildare and highlighted the potential benefits of purchasing outright the old post office building in Kildare town which now is home to the Hive Youth hub.

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Kathryn Zappone acknowledged the issues raised with which she is familiar following her recent meetings with representatives from Kildare Youth Services.

I will continue to raise and highlight these issues until I see an improvement in this important area