The statistics reveal the YJB block-purchased 274 places in SCHs in 2002. The figure currently stands at 219, although a YJB decision not to renew contracts with four homes, announced in March, means a further 28 places will be lost.
This will eventually take the total to 191 by March 2010 - a fall of 30 per cent on the 2002 figure.
Critics argue the YJB should endeavour to maintain SCH capacity as they offer a high staff to child ratio and are a more suitable environment than young offender institutions or secure training centres (STCs).
The Parliamentary figures also show that, while the number of places purchased in SCHs has fallen, the number of STC places has more than doubled, from 130 in 2002 to 301 this year.
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