The local drugs task forces, LDTFs, were established in 1997 in the areas experiencing the worst levels of drug misuse, particularly heroin. Currently, there are 14 local drugs task forces – 12 in Dublin, one in Cork, and one in Bray which was designated an LDTF area in 2000. All LDTFs, with the exception of Bray, have prepared two local action plans and funding has been allocated for the implementation of projects within these plans. The projects draw on the funding allocated as they become operational.
The first set of tables below shows each task force area broken down by project under the first round of funding. The second set of tables shows the allocation for individual projects in each LDTF area under the second round of funding.
The Deputy should note that allocations to LDTF projects are for a 12 month period. Once evaluated, successful projects are mainstreamed by enabling their on-going provision by statutory agencies. In this context, 122 projects from the first plans were mainstreamed at the start of 2001 at a cost of approximately €11 million.
The remainder of the projects were either once-off, had delayed starts or are still on interim funding awaiting decisions on mainstreaming.
The bulk of the projects from the second round of plans will be due for evaluation in 2004.