Luke Flanagan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 454: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if the Forensic Science Laboratory has found grit weed contamination in samples of cannabis seized in recent times; if he will make available the results of analysis carried out by the Forensic Science Laboratory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34536/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I can inform the Deputy that the Forensic Science Laboratory is independent of me in its work and I have no role in its day to day operations.

However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy I have had enquiries made with Forensic Science Laboratory and I am informed that the Laboratory's analysis focusses on the identification of the controlled drug. Other contaminants may be noted but are not formally monitored. The Forensic Science Laboratory were aware of cases with crushed glass and/or tiny beads in 2007 and 2008. However, the staff who analyse drugs do not recollect seeing contaminants in samples in 2011.