Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

291. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the quantity and estimated street value of an illegal drug (details supplied) seized for each year since 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7427/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is referring to the substance called "fentanyl". Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic, similar to morphine but considerably more potent. It is typically used in the medical profession to treat patients with severe pain, to manage pain after surgery, or to treat patients with chronic pain who are physically intolerant to other opioids. 

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that there were no seizures of Fentanyl recorded from 2014-2016.  In 2017, 990 grams of the drug with an estimated street value of €64,364 was seized based on analysis of the drugs undertaken by Forensic Science Ireland (FSI). The estimated street value of the drug data provided by FSI is calculated on the basis of current market value of drugs at street level in this jurisdiction, which is the subject of regular review by the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.

I am advised by the Garda Authorities that the data provided is valid to 8 February 2018 and is operational and provisional and therefore liable to change.