I am advised by Revenue that since October 2017 it has not been notified of, or invited to any Joint Policing Committee (JPC) meetings in Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal or Mayo. Revenue has reiterated assurances previously given that officials will participate in meetings regarding the importation of illicit drugs, where requested to do so by the Joint Policing Committees.
I am assured that Revenue is very aware of its responsibilities and the frontline role that it carries out in protecting society from the importation of illicit drugs. Revenue is active in targeting and combating drugs smuggling and works closely with other State agencies (particularly an Garda Síochána) acting against the illicit drugs trade. As part of Revenue’s risk focused approach to combating the importation of illicit drugs, the potential for drug smuggling at harbours and inlets along the coastline is evaluated, monitored and acted upon on an ongoing basis. The work is also informed by Revenue’s analysis of national and international seizure trends, frequency of traffic, routes and other risk indicators.
Revenue’s work is supported by Revenue’s Customs Drugs Watch programme which provides a confidential reporting mechanism to the public to report any suspicious activity on a 24/7 free phone facility at 1800 295 295.
If the Deputy has specific information that could assist Revenue in its targeting of any illegal activity, the information should be forwarded to Revenue for investigation.
