Godfrey Timmins
Ceist:36 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost per annum to the Exchequer of smuggling; and if he will give details of the major commodities involved. [11898/95]
Written Answers. - Smuggled Goods.
Because of its clandestine nature, it is not possible to provide reliable estimates of the level of smuggling or of its effect on Exchequer revenue.
There is evidence, based on intelligence and levels of Customs and Excise seizures, of considerable smuggling of tobacco products — mainly cigarettes — and of some smuggling of alcoholic drink. Over £1 million worth of smuggled tobacco products were seized by Customs in 1994 and over £3 million worth in 1995 to date. About £250,000 worth of smuggled alcoholic drinks, including spirits, beer and wine, were seized in 1994 and some £75,000 worth in 1995 to date.
The Revenue Commissioners are alive to the dangers of smuggling of high duty goods of these kinds and, as the level of seizures would indicate, they take appropriate measures to combat this trafficking.
Particular measures are being taken at present to combat the illegal importation of cigarettes and other tobacco products.