asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is satisfied with the system of monitoring imports of footwear, in order to ensure that the production of countries outside the EC is not being unloaded here.
Written Answers. - Monitoring Imports of Footwear.
21.
I am satisfied with the operation of the system to survey imports of footwear produced in countries outside the EC. Under this system direct and indirect imports of all such footwear may only be made on production to Irish customs officials of a surveillance import document issued by my Department. The purpose of the surveillance system is to obtain up-to-date statistics and advance notice of all planned imports. This enables me, should the need arise, to seek, through the European Commission, authority to introduce protective measures. The Deputy should note that less than 30 per cent of total footwear imports are produced outside the EC.