asked the Minister for Finance the progress which has been made in the computerisation of customs clearance procedures for exports and imports; whether he accepts the CII estimate of £60 million savings per annum to Irish industry as an achievable target following computerisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Computerisation of Customs Procedures.
96.
The computerisation of customs clearance procedures for exports and imports is a very complex project which can be tackled in a number of quite different ways. In order to ensure that the most cost effective choice is made having regard both to the interests of the Revenue Commissioners and the wider national interest independent consultants were commissioned to investigate the options and recommend how best to proceed. The Revenue Commissioners expect to receive the consultants recommendations before Christmas.
I cannot comment on how soon customs clearance procedures will be computerised until this report is examined nor can I confirm the projected savings referred to in the Deputy's question.