Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2004
404 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the arrangements that exist for the safe custody of illegal drugs seized by the gardaí; the arrangements that exist for the destruction of such illegal substances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3610/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll illegal drugs seized are initially conveyed to the forensic science laboratory for analysis. Once analysed, smaller quantities of seized drugs are returned to the Garda district or divisional headquarters of origin. They are stored in secure conditions, in a safe, for evidential purposes until no longer required.
Large volume seizures of heroin, cocaine, cannabis resin and herbal cannabis are stored in secure conditions at Garda headquarters in the Phoenix Park. When no longer required as evidence or in the event of no prosecution, all high volume drug seizures are destroyed under the supervision of the Garda technical bureau. Smaller seizures of drugs are destroyed at district level, under the supervision of an inspector.
