Michael Ring
Question:223 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice the procedure for dealing with illegal drugs following their seizure by gardaí and Customs and Excise officials. [20902/96]
Written Answers - Illegal Drugs.
Michael Ring
Question:224 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice whether any members of the general public are present when seized illegal drugs are destroyed; and if not, the person/body who independently monitors such operations. [20903/96]
Michael Ring
Question:225 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice the length of time seized illegal drugs are kept before being destroyed. [20904/96]
Michael Ring
Question:226 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice whether there is any possibility of drugs seized by gardaí re-entering the system. [20905/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 223, 224, 225 and 226 together. I understand that the arrangements are that when drugs are seized by the gardaí and Customs and Excise, such drugs shall, having regard to any crime scene examination that may be necessary, be delivered without delay to Garda Headquarters for forensic examination. All drugs seized or otherwise coming into possession of the gardaí are kept in a safe and secure location under Garda protection.
Where there are legal proceedings or other legal requirements involving the seizure of drugs, the drugs must be kept as evidence. Where there are no legal proceedings or other legal restraints, drugs are disposed of as soon as possible.
I am advised that it is not policy to have any member of the general public present when seized illegal drugs are being destroyed. The destruction of drugs is witnessed by a Garda superintendent or inspector and there are set procedures to be followed, including maintaining a system of records and certification.