Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 September 2011
485 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health the mechanisms in place to deliver on the oversight and co-ordination of the drugs task forces in the greater Dublin area; his vision for the work of the drug task forces in the greater Dublin area over the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25652/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe institutional arrangements to support cross agency working, advise on operational and policy matters, assess progress across the National Drugs Strategy and address any operational difficulties include the Drugs Advisory Group and the Oversight Forum on Drugs. The Drugs Advisory Group has a specific mandate to oversee and support the work of the Drugs Task Forces.
Drugs Task Forces play a key role in assessing the extent and nature of the drug problem in their areas and co-ordinating action at local level so that there is a targeted response to the drug problem in local communities. With a view to strengthening their effectiveness, I am initiating a review which will focus on the role of Task Forces and their funding and accountability arrangements. I also plan to review the role, composition and national structures under which Task Forces operate.
