Jim Higgins
Question:72 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in releasing a vehicle to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo who is prepared to pay duties on same.
Written Answers. - Vehicle Release.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the vehicle in question was seized under the Customs Acts on 15 November 1990 as it was imported without payment of the proper import charges. The person concerned had claimed entitlement to duty-free importation of the vehicle under the transfer of residence provisions. Since the seizure this claim was the subject of investigation. That investigation has now been completed and it has been found that the person is ineligible to benefit under these provisions. Furthermore it has been established that in support of the claim false evidence was given to Customs. In such a case the importer is liable to prosecution and the vehicle is liable for forfeiture. In this instance however the Commissioners have decided to refrain from legal proceedings and allow release of the vehicle for a compromise sum. The details of the release terms will be communicated shortly.