YOUNG males are dropping out of school and are more interested in anti social behaviour than finding work according to the Tallaght South Chamber of Commerce.
The observation comes in a discussion paper on a crime strategy for Tallaght, written for the chamber by a project team on crime and the image of Tallaght.
"There is clear evidence in the schools that young males are more often dropping out of the educational system and indeed are less interested in obtaining post school employment. The reasons for this are not clear but what is clear is that many young males are finding alternative scope for their energies in anti social behaviour. It appears that this connection has not been made to date and needs now to be addressed and responded to," it said.
It says while crime in Tallaght is no worse than similar urban areas, it is perceived as a problem, especially for business.
In particular crime means that funds are diverted from productive investment to meet security requirements it causes stress for employees and imparts a negative image of the area as a place to invest or work.
There is also a danger of a serious incident due to the number of businesses with chemicals and in flammable materials on their premises.
The causes of crime in Tallaght are the drug problem it shares with other urban areas the dramatic increase in population over the past 20 years, without a corresponding development of social infrastructure and leisure facilities for the young the large young population and high levels of educational disadvantage, and the high levels of deprivation and unemployment in certain housing estates.
The discussion paper urges a multi faceted approach to crime in the area. This would include investment in the living environment by State and local authorities, and tax incentives for business. It would also involve increased support for community initiatives, some of which are already supported by the local business, like the Fettercairn Drugs Project.
According to the paper the chamber is not convinced there are sufficient gardai stationed in Tallaght.