The publication and implementation of the recommendations of the Drogheda Scoping Report into Community Safety and Wellbeing undertaken by Mr Vivian Geiran, former director of the Probation Service, are key actions in the Justice Plan 2021.
Over 70 recommendations were made in the scoping report on short and long term responses to challenges the community faces in Drogheda. This includes measures around crime prevention, youth services, drug addiction, education, infrastructure and community development.
The recommendations highlight the need for improved interagency cooperation in the administration and delivery of State services in Drogheda, as well as the need to provide additional resources and services in certain areas.
The Implementation Plan identifies the relevant stakeholders for each recommendation and outlines the next steps for engagement and delivery. The Plan will be a living document and will be reviewed by the Department of Justice each quarter, with progress reports produced twice yearly. This will facilitate ongoing engagement and consultation.
At local level, the Drogheda Implementation Board is the core driver and co-ordinator of the activities outlined in the Plan, while the Department of Justice is leading national oversight to ensure strategic direction, action planning and the delivery of the Drogheda Implementation Plan.
The Implementation Board is hosted by the Louth-Meath Education and Training Board. The Board was established in October 2021 and will be operational for a 24 month period. The Board is led by an Independent Chair, Mr. Michael Keogh, and supported by a full-time coordinator, Gráinne Berrill.