Seán Power
Question:2 Mr. Power asked the Taoiseach the total amount of tobacco imported in 1997; the way in which this compares with previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13392/98]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tobacco Imports.
The information requested by the Deputy is given in a table which I propose to circulate in the Official Report.
Imports of tobacco and tobacco products l992-97
|
Tonnes |
£ |
|
|
1992 |
12,213 |
46.1 |
|
1993 |
10,687 |
43.4 |
|
1994 |
11,568 |
42.8 |
|
1995 |
10,647 |
43.4 |
|
1996 |
12,470 |
47.4 |
|
1997 |
12,025 |
51.0 |
Note: It should be noted that, overall, approximately 7 per cent of trade is unclassified by commodity. The unclassified trade consists mainly of intra-EU estimates, including estimates for traders below the import survey threshold of £100,000.
The figures show that in l992 imports of tobacco and tobacco products were valued at £46.1 million. Last year that figure had increased to £51 million, an 8 per cent increase in the value of those imports.
Will the Minister agree we must do something to reduce the demand for tobacco which has a serious effect on the health of our nation? Almost 20 per cent of hospital beds are now taken up by people suffering from tobacco related illnesses. The tobacco industry spends large sums of money on advertising campaigns aimed at young people because their older customers are dying. Does the Government have any plans to reduce the demand for tobacco?
I should point out to the Deputy that this is a statistical question, not one of policy.
That is right, but this is a serious matter that needs to be addressed.
It is purely a statistical question.
In volume terms, tobacco imports have remained largely static with 12.2 tonnes imported in 1992 and 12.0 in 1997. In terms of usage, the Deputy will have to add in the domestic production and I do not have those figures with me.
Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) rose.
It is not usual to ask supplementary questions on statistical questions, the answers to which are circulated in the Official Report.
(Dublin West): Why not?
It is precedent.
(Dublin West): Perhaps that precedent should be changed.
If the Deputy wants to ask about policy he should put down a question but he cannot ask supplementary questions on the policy aspects of this question. It is purely a statistical question.
(Dublin West): The volume of tobacco imports raises other related matters.
The Deputy should put down another question on that. This is a statistical question and the Minister who gave the reply is not responsible for policy in this area.