The Local Drugs Task Forces were set up in 1997 to facilitate a more effective response to the drug problem in the areas of Ireland experiencing high levels of drug misuse. The designated areas were: Ballyfermot, Ballymun, Blanchardstown, the Canal Communities, Clondalkin, Dublin North Inner City; Dublin South Inner City, Dublin 12, Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown, Finglas-Cabra, Cork City, North East Dublin and Tallaght. The Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion provided £10 million to support implementation of the initial task force plans. This handbook outlines the arrangement for the operation of the Drugs Task Forces and explains their overall objectives. The handbook also explains the composition of Local Drugs Task Forces, the role of their members, what supports are available for the Task Forces, and provides guidelines for mainstreaming funded projects.