Clondalkin Drug and Alcohol Task Force’s Prevention Lab was launched on 13 May 2026 by Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy

The Prevention Lab is a school-based programme that takes a whole-school approach. It supports students, parents and educators to address drug and alcohol misuse, and it aims to create a supportive environment where prevention and early intervention are prioritised. It does so by delivering supplementary substance use education opportunities for young people; guidance to schools on substance use policy; staff information events; and workshops for parents, among other elements. Grounded in evidence-based practice, the initiative aims to promote resilience, strengthen understanding of substance use, and empower young people to make informed decisions.

The Lab works to a partnership model, with the support of Crosscare and local school management. The Clondalkin Drug and Alcohol Task Force states that this ‘has enabled the programme to become an established and effective response to substance use within participating schools’.

Research is a feature of the Lab. In partnership with Trinity College Dublin, research is being undertaken to evaluate the programme’s development and impact, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of young people and their communities.

At the time of the launch, the Prevention Lab was operating in eight post-primary schools and one Youthreach centre across Clondalkin, Lucan, Adamstown and Drimnagh. The Task Force plans to expand it to additional schools in the academic year 2026/27.

The Minister offered her support for the Prevention Lab, stating:

As Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy, I am a strong advocate for evidence-based prevention. We must ensure our younger population have the appropriate supports and care in place to build life skills, confidence, and the ability to make informed, healthy choices. The Clondalkin Drug and Alcohol Task Force have displayed leadership and expertise in advancing evidence-based drug prevention and can be viewed as a model in this area. 

From L-R: Eddie Mullins, CDATF Chairperson; Cathy Martin, CDATF Prevention Officer; Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy; and Trevor Bissett, CDATF Coordinator. 

Trevor Bissett, Coordinator of Clondalkin Drug and Alcohol Task Force, said:

The Prevention Lab represents a proactive and practical approach to supporting young people. By working closely with schools, families, and community partners, we are creating an environment where young people are better equipped to make positive, informed choices about their health and well-being.