A Government taskforce to examine issues in Dublin’s north inner city may take two years to complete its work, a local meeting has heard.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and several Ministers on Tuesday night met community leaders in the area to discuss local problems.

Mr Kenny said the Government would introduce a “structure and strategy” that could develop smaller projects which could make a big difference.

Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe said funding would be reviewed and funds allocated to ensure the area was not neglected.

A taskforce has been promised by Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to look at a range of issues in the area.

However, former lord mayor of Dublin Christy Burke said work would take between 18 months and two years.

Mr Donohoe said he would not put a timeline on the work.

More than 40 community activists attended the meeting with Mr Kenny.

Minister for Education Richard Bruton said he would request pilot projects in local Deis schools.

Gangland feud

Seven people have been murdered in the area in a gangland feud between the Hutch and Kinihan gangs.

Speaking on his way in, Mr Kenny said this was a listening experience.

He said he wanted to hear from the leaders in the area who had a real interest in promoting safety and education.

Mr Burke said Ministers were being made aware of the “grip of fear” over the area.

Mr Burke said Mr Kenny was told of an 82-year-old woman who is afraid to leave her home.

The councillor said he had no interest in listening to more presentations or attending more talking shops.

He said a plan of action was needed by the Government.

Meanwhile, Minister for Health Simon Harris received Government approval to outlaw the unauthorised sale of prescription drugs.

Mr Harris said the legislation will be fast-tracked and will be passed by the end of the summer.