Judge Angela Ní Chondúin yesterday subpoenaed a social worker to court to explain what is being done to get a brain damaged youth into an appropriate care unit.
The youth (17) is currently being held on remand in Clover Hill Prison, Dublin, but due to his medical condition a conventional detention centre has been deemed unsuitable.
The South Western Area Health Board had identified that one solution was to refer him to a care facility in England but declined to pursue this route because it cost too much, the Dublin Children's Court heard.
Pressure needs to put on the health board to do something to help the teenager, Judge Ní Chondúin said. "I do not want to put this young man in custody for one night longer than is necessary."
Following traumatic head injuries sustained two years ago, the youth was placed in a special care unit. Since his release, he has been arrested on criminal damage and assault charges.