asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the annoyance caused to business people by the imposition by Aer Lingus of a customs clearance charge in respect of goods consigned to this country by air and passing through Dublin Airport; and that such charge is imposed on goods in respect of which no customs duties are payable; if he will state the authority for making such a charge; and if he will have steps taken to have this practice discontinued.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Customs Clearance Charge.
17.
Mr. Ryan
Customs clearance charges as distinct from duties are not a statutory imposition. They are made by importers' agents to cover the bonding of consignments, the preparation of the necessary customs documentation and arranging the release of goods by the customs authorities. Clearance procedures normally have to be complied with, whether goods are dutiable or not.
No complaints have been received in my Department about the level of charges made by Aer Lingus or any other clearance agents at Dublin Airport. If Aer Lingus do not prepare the customs documentation, they charge only for the services actually rendered by them.