asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what steps are taken to ensure that licences for the import of footwear are distributed in an equitable manner among traders; and what is the basis on which decisions are reached regarding the issue and refusal of licences.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Footwear Import Licences.
64.
I assume that the Deputy's question relates to footwear the importation of which is controlled by quota. Certain types of footwear may be freely imported on payment of the appropriate customs duty. In the case of footwear which is subject to quota restrictions, import licences are granted only to firms registered under the relevant quota order. Distribution of the quota is on the basis of each registered firm's Irish purchases in a base year. The only additions to the quota register are new firms engaged in the wholesale distribution of footwear.