The President's Awards are being credited with helping grow the self-esteem of people at the country's youth detention centre.
Seven young people being held at the facility in North Dublin have been given Gaisce medals for making a positive contribution.
They were awarded bronze and silver medals this week in a special ceremony at Oberstown Children's Detention Campus.
The President’s Award is a self-development programme for young people between the ages of 15-25.
Research show it helps enhance confidence and well-being through personal, physical, community and team challenges.
The young offenders have been recognised for things like charity fundraising, completing a first-aid course and football coaching.
Damien Hernon from Oberstown Children's Detention Campus says the underage offenders have been working hard to turn their lives around.
"It creates a sense of achievement within themselves... it's really about optimising their potential for when they leave here".
Damien also explained how the awards have given the young people a boost.
He said "they grow taller, they can look at you, they can engage in conversation.
So from a self-esteem perspective it's just magnificent".
The seven recipients successfully completed their Gaisce challenges over the past 12 months.
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