Councillor Jim Codd Criticizes Lack of Drugs Task Force Coordinator

Councillor Jim Codd has voiced his strong frustration over the absence of a coordinator for the Southeast Drugs and Alcohol Task Force, a position that has been vacant for the past eight years. Speaking to South East Radio about the issue, Cllr. Codd highlighted the growing problem of cheap drugs flooding the streets of Wexford and the wider southeast, saying that without proper coordination, efforts to combat the crisis are being undermined. The Aontú Councillor who serves on the task force, pointed out that despite the position being vacant, a salary for the coordinator is still being paid. "It is absolutely infuriating that hundreds of thousands of euros are being spent on a position that isn’t even filled," he said. "We need a coordinator who will attend meetings, assist with the task force’s initiatives, and help us tackle the drug crisis in our communities." The councillor called on the Health Service Executive (HSE) to resolve the issue and ensure that the coordinator role is filled without further delay. He also proposed that, rather than continuing to pay the unfilled position, the funds could be better used to support local initiatives such as the Cornmarket Project in Wexford, which provides vital services to people affected by addiction. As the region faces an ongoing rise in drug-related issues, Codd warned that without proper support and intervention, more individuals will fall victim to addiction and homelessness. With winter approaching, he stressed the urgency of taking action to help those struggling, especially those who are sleeping rough on the streets.