GALWAY PRE-SCHOOL RESEARCH KEY TO PREVENTION OF ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

Date Published: 10-May-2012

Research into pre-school education led and pioneered in Galway has a vital role to play in tacking anti-social behaviour issues and preventing juvenile crime.

That's according to Children's Minister Frances Fitzgerald who officiated at the launch of a new report on the "Incredible Years Programme" in the Carlton Hotel in the city earlier this afternoon.

NUI Galway is behind “Making a difference – An independent evaluation of the incredible years programme in preschools in the city.

61 preschool children were evaluated as part of the programme in four community preschools in the city from 2009 to 2011.

500 children and 150 parents have completed the programme to date, the first of its kind in Ireland.

Key findings reveal an improvement in children’s social competence and a decrease in conduct disorder problem.

Speaking to Galway Bay fm at the Launch, Minister Fitzgerald says the project will now be examined and integrated nationally and will play a key role in early intervention.