(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Justice whether he or the Garda Síochána has any function in relation to the prevention, detection and prosecution of offences involving the smuggling of sugar; and, if so, if he will make a statement detailing such functions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sugar Smuggling.
22.
Members of the Garda Síochána who, in the course of their ordinary duties in Border areas, detect smuggling bring the matter to the notice of the local customs authorities. They are not, however, in any way responsible for the prevention of smuggling.
Will the Minister state whether the Gardaí in that area brought anything to the notice of the Department during the past 12 months?
As I have said, the Garda are not responsible for the detection of smuggling but if in the course of their ordinary duties they come across some evidence of smuggling, they bring it to the notice of the customs authority.