Tallaght Drug and Alcohol Task Force launches four-year strategy

THE Tallaght Drug and Alcohol Task Force’s (TDATF) four-year strategy was launched on Monday morning in the St Aengus’ Drug Project’s premises.

Launched by Mayor Emma Murphy, the strategy outlines the task force’s plans for its services from 2022 to 2026.

The key priorities in the strategy include enhancing access to drug and alcohol services in the community and addressing the social determinants and consequences of drug use.

Grace Hill from the TDATF told The Echo: “It was a good morning, and it was very fitting that it was in Aengus’s because it was one of the first community drug projects we had in Tallaght.

“The launch was really good.

“People were delighted to be back in person, and it was all very supportive.”

Grace Hill, TDATF co-ordinator, addresses those present at the launch of the four-year strategy

The main focus of the event was on the future plans for the task force’s services, and how the task force will continue to meet the needs of those with drug and alcohol addiction.

“The strategy is very action focused,” explained Ms Hill.

“There’s 40 actions in total across four strategy points.

“It’s about strengthening our services, preventing drug and alcohol use, and reducing harm against children and young people.

“It’s also about the sustainability and longevity of our services.”

While the Task Force oversees a number of services, Ms Hill said she’s quite keen to follow the outcome of a new street work programme called Connect 4, which is already seeing success.

The project, run by the South Dublin County Partnership, was recently rolled out and has a team of workers who engage with young people within the community and direct them to support services.

The target age group for the project is people aged 10 to 24 years old, who may be struggling with a variety of issues, such as addiction and mental health, and workers engage with them on the street.

“I have a particular grá towards the prevention piece,” said Ms Hill.

“Particularly in terms of trying to sustain, enhance and develop the Connect 4 street workers project.

“It’s already had a huge amount of outcomes, and I’m really excited about it in terms of seeing where the project will go. It’s really great.

“I have to say, I’m very proud of it.”

As for the future of the task force’s services, Ms Hill said she’s optimistic, particularly because of a funding boost in the recent Government budget.

“At the moment there are challenges, but I’m looking forward to seeing how that €3.5m that’s in the Budget nationally for drug services will be rolled out,” she said.

“The services need this funding. They all had sustainability issues even before the cost-of-living crisis, so it’s very concerning, but I’m optimistic and I hope that funding level will continue.”

Visit the Tallaght Drug and Alcohol Task Force’s website, tallaghtdatf.ie, for more information.