asked the Minister for Finance if he has satisfied himself that the correct procedures were followed in relation to the alterations of the published official opening hours of land frontier customs posts in County Monaghan on (i) 10 April, 1988 and (ii) 3 July, 1988; if not, the steps he proposes to take to ensure that adequate advance notice will be given in future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Customs Posts Opening Hours.
162.
The Revenue Commissioners are empowered under the Customs (Land Frontier) Regulations 1968 (S.I. No. 117 of 1968) to alter opening hours at Customs stations and frontier posts.
Both of the dates referred to were Sundays.Sunday attendance is normally given by Customs at these posts on an overtime basis for a period of six hours. On the dates in question, requests were received for Customs attendance at these posts during particular hours to facilitate the clearance of car rally vehicles and equipment. The hours of attendance were accordingly decided on having regard both to the terms of these requests and to the most cost-effective use of resources consistent with the protection of the Revenue.
In the circumstances I am satisfied that the correct procedures were followed in deciding on the opening hours for the frontier posts in question.
163.
asked the Minister for Finance where an alteration in the official opening hours of land frontier customs posts is proposed, the measures which should be taken to inform the public in advance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Details of the official opening hours of Customs posts and frontier posts and any alterations to them are contained in public notices issued by the Revenue Commissioners from time to time as necessary.