asked the Minister for Finance the reason secondhand goods were confiscated by the Custom and Excise officers at Tullyesker, Drogheda, County Louth from a person (details supplied) in County Louth; when the goods will be returned; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Confiscation of Goods.
40.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that on 22 November 1987 five wheel rims and one steering wheel were seized by officers of Customs and Excise from the person in question. He admitted purchasing the goods in Northern Ireland and importing them via an unapproved road without payment of the import charges. As he had not remained outside the State for 48 hours immediately prior to arrival in the State he was not entitled to any duty-free allowance.
The person in question rendered himself liable to prosecution under the customs Acts and the goods and vehicle liable to forfeiture. In this instance, the commissioners are willing to refrain from legal proceedings and release the goods on payment of a compromise sum of £75. This amount takes into consideration the import charge of £37.50 payable on the goods.