A judge at the Children's Court has told a department official that new beds for juvenile offenders need to be opened now.

Judge Ann Ryan has said it is not good enough for the government to be having audits and committee meetings when a child who should be in detention is free in the community, perhaps to commit some awful crime.

The District Court judge was responding to reasons given by an official at the Department of Children for the lack of detention and custodial places for juvenile offenders.

Michelle Shannon came to court at the request of the judge and explained that a new building project at Oberstown in North Dublin means spaces will become available there by the middle of next year.

She said in the short term an audit of staff rosters is taking place at Trinity House with a view to opening up 8 beds. She added demand has increased and they now have to facilitate 16 year olds who would previously have been held at St. Patrick's Institution.

In reply Judge Ryan said juvenile detention is a last resort; 'there are 8 beds there, I can't see why resources can't be put in place'.

She said she appreciates the long-term view but added '8 beds need to be opened and now, get the 8 beds open please, that's the message I send out'.

Michelle Shannon said she will report back to the Minister for Children Frances FitzGerald.