An unprecedented standoff has emerged between a local drugs task force and the Department of Health after the department suddenly suspended the body. The North Inner City Drugs and Alcohol Task Force (NICDATF) said the department had alleged “governance shortcomings” in the organisation, a charge the task force completely rejects. Chairman rejects allegations of shortcomingsA statement issued by community representatives in the task force said that if this is not done that the task force “will be obliged to take further steps to defend its good name and reputation”. Speaking to the Irish Examiner, the chairman of the task force, Professor Joe Barry, said the task force “rejected out of hand” the allegation. It said if the department did not withdraw the suspension by this Friday the task force "will be obliged to take further steps to defend its good name and reputation".

Source: Irish Examiner July 07, 2021 22:18 UTC