Tom Enright
Question:32 Mr. Enright asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the plans, if any, he has to establish new local drug task forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2856/00]
Written Answers. - National Drugs Strategy.
The local drugs task forces were set up in disadvantaged areas experiencing the highest levels of illicit drug use, particularly heroin abuse. While the use of illicit drugs is a nation-wide phenomenon, heroin abuse presents particular problems because of its public health implications and close association with crime. In determining the designation of the task force areas, therefore, the focus has been on those areas which have a high incidence of heroin abuse.
The criteria used for determining such areas are drug treatment data from the health services; Garda crime statistics; data relating to school attendance-drop-out; and other relevant data on the levels of social and economic disadvantage in the area. Based on these criteria, the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Social Inclusion decided last year that a further task force area be designated in Bray. This brings to 14 the number of task forces which have been set up to date.
A review of the overall national drugs strategy is now under way. This review will take account of the measures currently being undertaken to tackle drug misuse and the adequacy of these responses in the light of emerging trends in drug misuse nationally, with a view to making recommendations to Government on future drugs policy.