Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 6

Written Answers. - Departmental Programmes.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

387 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to increase assistance to local based community groups involved in combating drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24266/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. Ahern)

As the Deputy is aware, my Department has overall responsibility for co-ordinating the implementation of the national drugs strategy 2001-2008. The strategy contains 100 individual actions, under the four pillars of supply reduction, prevention, treatment and research, to be implemented by a range of Departments and agencies.

My Department also has responsibility for the work of the local drugs task forces, which were established in 1997 in the areas experiencing the worst levels of drug misuse. Over €65 million has been allocated to the task forces to implement their two rounds of action plans. A further €11.5 million has been allocated to capital projects under the premises initiative, which is designed to meet the accommodation needs of community based drugs projects.

In addition, over €59 million has been allocated under the young peoples facilities and services fund in LDTF areas and four other urban centres. The main aim of the fund is to attract at risk young people in disadvantaged areas into recreational facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance misuse.

The Estimates process for 2004 is currently ongoing and the allocations for my Department have not been finalised. However, I can assure the Deputy that it is my intention that resources will continue to be available in local drugs task force areas to implement plans to tackle drug misuse.

Question No. 388 answered with Question No. 80.

Question No. 389 answered with Question No. 124.

Question No. 390 answered with Question No. 93.

Question No. 391 answered with Question No. 124.