Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2015
173. Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Minister for Health the number of the 15 recommendations of the 2012 Report on the Review of Drugs Task Forces and the National Structures Under Which They Operate that have been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18089/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra174. Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on a merger of two organisations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18090/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra175. Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on a matter (details supplied) regarding local drugs task forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18091/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 173 to 175, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the conclusions of a review of the future direction and role of Drugs Task Forces and the national structures that underpin the general drugs area were announced in December 2012. The review recommended a series of changes to better equip the Task Forces to respond to the current pattern of substance misuse. In line with the recommendations, the role of the Task Forces has been extended to tackle alcohol misuse and a National Coordinating Committee has been established to guide the work of the Task Forces and drive implementation of the National Drugs Strategy.
The National Coordinating Committee is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the recommendations. Of the 15 recommendations, 11 have been fully implemented. I have asked my Department to provide the Deputy with a full report on the status of each recommendation. In relation to the recommendation on boundary changes it is intended to consult with the Task Forces concerned by these proposals before introducing any changes to catchment areas.
