asked the Minister for Finance if, in connection with the consignment of footwear recently seized by customs officers due to illegal importation, he will state how it is proposed to dispose of it.
13.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Illegal Importation of Footwear.
11.
asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied that the measures at present in force are adequate to prevent the illegal importation of footwear, in view of the serious consequences for the industry in this country.
14.
asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) in connection with the illegal importation of a consignment of shoes; if so, if he will make a statement on the matter, dealing specifically with (1) the source of supply, as distinct from the country of origin; (2) the steps that are being taken to carry out a full investigation into this incident; (3) the proposed destination of the footwear following importation and (4) whether the identity of any consignee in this country can be established; and, if so, the steps he proposes to take in the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 11, 13 and 14 together. The Revenue Commissioners are alive to the dangers of footwear smuggling and I am satisfied that a high level of surveillance is being maintained to combat it. It is not feasible from the information furnished to identify the particular case to which the Deputy refers. I can state, however, that there have been some recent seizures of footwear by the customs and investigations in these cases are continuing. Legal proceedings may ensure and in view of this it would be inappropriate for me at this stage to comment further. I might add that as a general rule seized goods such as footwear which are subject to import restriction are not disposed of for sale on the home market.
How are they disposed of? Are they given to a charitable institution?
I am not quite sure how they are disposed of except that they are not disposed of for sale on the home market. They may be disposed of abroad but I cannot positively assure the Deputy of that. I will inquire and let the Deputy know.
Part of Question No. 14 asks the destination of the footwear after importation. It would have been reasonable to have had the information available today.
The Deputy misunderstands the question. The purpose of that query was to find out the destination for which the footwear was intended within the State.
12.
asked the Minister for Finance the number of prosecutions preferred for illegal importation of footwear during the most recent yearly period for which figures are available; and the number of convictions.
One prosecution was preferred in the year 1977 but the case has not yet reached the court.