Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 January 2019
86. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if custom officials carry out adequate surveillance and checks with regard a particular transport service (details supplied) in view of concerns raised. [3464/19]
View answer89. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Finance the number of customs officials that are assigned to Rosslare Port; the start and end times of custom official shifts; and if customs officials are present for all ferry departures and arrivals. [3538/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 86 and 89 together.
I am advised by Revenue that interventions that it makes as regards entry into or importation into the State are risk based. The overall customs regime in place is designed to facilitate the legitimate movement of trade and to secure payment and collection of duty and VAT, as appropriate and protect citizens, trade and the environment.
I am advised by Revenue that they provide trade facilitation services and support and undertake compliance interventions in any location where there are ferry arrivals and departures by reference to the overarching objectives set out above. The nature of the traffic movements concerned as regards an intra community service between EU Member States informs the assessment of risk.
I am assured by Revenue that all ferry services into and out of the location concerned are risk profiled and risk assessed. Where compliance risks are identified, Revenue resources including staff, detector dogs and Revenue’s mobile scanner, are available on a 24/7 basis for deployment.
I am advised by Revenue that there are currently 20 Revenue officials assigned to Rosslare Port with specific responsibility for Revenue’s trade facilitation and compliance functions in the port.
These officers are available on a 24/7 basis.
From the 4 March 2019, 20 additional officers will be assigned to Rosslare. These officers will be assigned on a 24/7 shift pattern.
