Substance Misuse

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022

Wednesday, 19 January 2022

Ceisteanna (2034)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

2034. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the current position further to a statement (details supplied) regarding drugs task forces. [63399/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development

My Department supports Local Development Companies (sometimes referred to as 'area partnerships') via SICAP or the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme. 

SICAP aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality by supporting communities and individuals using community development approaches, engagement and collaboration.  SICAP   actions are delivered by 46 local development companies nationwide. 

My Department secured a €4 million increase for SICAP for 2022 bringing the budget to €43m.  The increase  will allow for the creation of a number of posts within area partnerships/local development companies for new community workers on the ground in communities across Ireland. 

Funding for Drugs Task Forces is a matter for the Department of Health.