Written answers

Wednesday, 28 February 2007

Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

National Drugs Strategy

10:00 pm

Photo of Arthur MorganArthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 143: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the fact that FÁS are failing to send representatives to Drug Task Force meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7780/07]

Photo of Noel AhernNoel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces bring together all Departments and State Agencies involved with tackling problem drug use, as well as the community and voluntary sectors. It is imperative that there is full engagement by all parties to ensure the success of the Task Forces and the co-ordinated implementation of the National Drugs Strategy.

I have not been notified of any issue in relation to the level of attendance of FÁS officials at Drug Task Force meetings. It is my understanding that FÁS representatives are actively engaged in these structures and that they are making a significant contribution to the ongoing implementation of the Strategy.

I understand that, where any issue regarding the levels of attendance at Drug Task Force meetings arises, it is the norm that it be addressed within that forum through the relevant Chairperson. A mechanism is in place to refer the matter to the National Drugs Strategy Team (NDST), should this prove necessary.

Meanwhile I am assured by the NDST that the issue of the level of engagement of representation of all relevant parties on Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces is overseen by them on an ongoing basis.

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