asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the concern expressed by representatives of all sections in Dublin Port at the danger to employment in the dock area, both in the cross-channel and deep-sea sectors, arising from the decision of the Revenue Commissioners to issue licences to firms or individuals which will enable them to establish inland customs clearance depots; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Port Handling Methods.
98.
Mr. Kenny
I am aware that there is concern in some quarters as to the changes in current handling methods at Dublin Port which may result from the use of transit depots removed from the points of importation for the customs clearance of certain container traffic. Proposals to make changes in handling methods have emanated from commercial and industrial interests and not from the Revenue Commissioners. The position of the Revenue Commissioners is that, having regard to the enabling provisions contained in section 16 of the Finance Act, 1967, they could not reasonably withhold approval of any such depots if they satisfy their requirements for effective and economic customs control.
The position might best be clarified by full discussion of the issues involved by the various interested parties. There is ample opportunity for such discussion, as the administrative arrangements antecedent to the approval of any individual depot will necessarily take some time.
The Parliamentary Secretary has referred to discussions. Can he set up the machinery for the discussions or is it already in existence?
Mr. Kenny
It has already been set up. I understand the Minister for Labour met members of the various unions concerned on 27th May. He met representatives of five unions: the ITGWU, MPGWU, WUI, ATGWU and NATE at the port of Dublin to discuss proposals to issue inland customs clearance licences. The unions pointed out they had not been made aware of developments in this matter until 17th April, 1974, and that it was imperative that adequate time be made available to discuss the issue involved. The Minister for Labour discussed the matter with the Ministers for Finance and Transport and Power and, following these discussions, a letter was sent to the unions on 31st May, 1974, by the Minister for Labour in which he stated it would not be possible to issue licences for a period of some months and that this would give the interested parties time to resolve any outstanding problems. I hope the Deputy understands the position.
I do, yes.