Members of the Roma community have presented handmade beanbags, toys and Christmas decorations to the National Children's Hospital in Tallaght.
The gifts were made under an innovative community project run by the Probation and Welfare Service. The scheme allows people to undertake a structured programme of activities instead of a custodial sentence. Participants receive language classes, medical and social education classes, and craftwork instruction.
Judge James Paul McDonnell said at the presentation of the gifts that he particularly welcomed the social and medical education aspects of the project.
The opportunity for participants to understand the English language and the "cultural assumptions" which underlie our society were also important, he added.
Senior probation and welfare officer Brian Horgan said participants also undertook an offender behaviour module which challenges offending behaviour and attitudes, with a specific emphasis on the reduction of reoffending.
"These women are living in Tallaght, so it's nice to be able to give something back to the local community," he said.
Hospital matron Maura Connolly said the presents were "most welcome" at this time of year. "We're delighted, we can give a tree decoration to children going home on Christmas day," she said. "These gifts will all be put to good use."