Early Co Kildare school leavers 'missing out' following raid on woodwork room

Gardai are appealing for information after thousands of euros worth of equipment was stolen from a Co Kildare centre for early school leavers.

Raiders broke into Athy Youthreach, on the Carlow Road, between 4.30p.m. and 7p.m. on Wednesday last. Entry was gained by forcing a window open.

Just some of the stolen items include two de Watt routers and a Bosch jigsaw hand-blade angle grinder.

Ellie Reddy, of Athy Youthreach, said that the 24 young people attending the centre are reliant on the woodwork room and the stolen items leave them at a disadvantage.

Ms Reddy said: "A lot of them benefited from this equipment, they are now missing out."

Youthreach is a Department of Education and Skills official education, training and work experience programme for early school leavers aged 15 – 20. It offers young people the opportunity to identify options within adult life, and provides them with opportunities to acquire certification. As it operates on a full-time, year-round basis, Youthreach has a continuous intake policy.