asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that customs examinations are much more stringent at venues of entry in this country than at corresponding venues in the UK and other European countries; and if he will consider the advisability of more liberality as an incentive to tourists to visit this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Customs Examinations.
24.
I do not accept that our current customs controls of passenger traffic can be described as stringent.
No doubt the Deputy has in mind what is known as the dual-channel system of clearance which is in operation at various places abroad and the essential feature of which is that it dispenses with the individual questioning of passengers generally. The Revenue Commissioners have participated in a special study of this procedure which was undertaken by a working party of the Customs Co-operation Council at Brussels and it is hoped to introduce it at certain points of entry in this country where suitable accommodation can be provided.
Would the Minister not accept the fact that practically everyone who comes in here has his luggage examined whereas in other countries this is not the practice? Has he himself observed the situation?
I have some personal knowledge of this but I would not claim extensive knowledge. I have no reason to disbelieve the information given to me, which does not necessarily contradict what the Deputy has said.
The Minister has not brought in any revolvers himself.
Would the Minister not agree that at other airports it is unusual—the exception rather than the rule—that people must open their luggage, whereas virtually everyone who comes into Dublin has to open his luggage and show it to the custom officials? Whether it is that they are looking for something to do or not, I do not know but that is the case.
I did point out in my reply that what the Deputy is saying is correct in regard to a number of places abroad. I also pointed out that we intend to introduce it at certain points of entry.