The Department and Minister of State John Curran T.D. has responsibility for co-ordinating the 

implementation of the National Drugs Strategy. The Strategy, which was launched in May 2001, 

is based on four pillars - supply reduction, prevention, treatment and research - under which a 

series of 100 individual actions have been identified. These actions are being carried out by a

number of Departments and Agencies. 

The Department is responsible for preparing six-monthly progress reports on the Strategy for the 

Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion, as well as an annual report on the Strategy.

In addition, the Department oversees the work of 14 Local Drugs Task Forces (LDTFs ). The 

LDTFs produce action plans which are assessed by the National Drugs Strategy Team and 

approved by the Inter-departmental Group on Drugs and the Cabinet Committee on Social 

Inclusion. A variety of projects in the areas of supply reduction, treatment, rehabilitation, prevention

and awareness are funded in the LDTF areas through these plans.

In 2002, the LDTF model was expanded to cover the entire country through the Regional Drug 

Task Forces (RDTFs). These Task Forces are based in each of the 10 Regional Health Board 

areas. Each RDTF is conducting initial research to establish the extent, nature and pattern of drug

misuse in their respective regions. Based on the findings of this research, each RDTF is charged 

with developing regional action plans for their areas to address the gaps in service provision.

Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund

The Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund is another major programme administered by 

the Department. Established in 1998, the YPFSF aims to divert at risk young people away from 

possible drug misuse by developing sporting and other recreational facilities in a non-threatening 

and constructive environment. It operates in the 14 LDTF areas in Dublin, Cork and Bray and also 

in four other urban areas (Limerick, Waterford, Carlow and Galway).

Click on the link below for information on Public Consultation meetings for the National Drugs 

Startegy 2009 – 2016

http://www.pobail.ie/en/NationalDrugsStrategy/file,9006,en.pdf

http://www.pobail.ie/en/NationalDrugsStrategy/