Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2014
181. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the process involved in the disposal of seized illegal drugs; the measures taken to ensure that all such products are fully disposed of; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10056/14]
View answerI am advised by the Garda authorities that in circumstances where controlled drugs have been seized and are subsequently made the subject of a court destruction order, or in circumstances where no offender is, or is likely to be, prosecuted in relation the seizure of the controlled drugs, they are destroyed in a safe and secure manner.
In the event of a conviction, the prosecution apply to the court for an order of destruction for the controlled drugs seized.
I am further informed that An Garda Síochána liaise with the Forensic Science Laboratory at Garda Headquarters on advices regarding the destruction of drugs and the method of destruction is recorded appropriately.
The responsibility for ensuring the destruction of drugs, whether subject to a court order or otherwise, rests with each District Officer. The drugs are destroyed under the supervision of an Inspector from the Technical Bureau at Garda Headquarters who certifies destruction to each relevant District Officer.
