Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 May 2012
165 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Finance the progress that has been made to address the issue of the illicit tobacco trade; if he will be sanctioning the introduction of scanners at Irish ports to detect this illegal trade as suggested by the advisory group for small business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23685/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Revenue Commissioners, who are responsible for the collection of tobacco products tax, and for tackling the illicit trade in tobacco products, that they attach a high priority to combating tobacco smuggling and have adopted a comprehensive strategy, underpinned by annual action plans, for this important work. This 3-year (2011-2013) strategy, which is published on Revenue's website www.revenue.ie, includes a number of programmes, which are designed to complement each other in targeting the supply and demand sides of the market for contraband tobacco in Ireland. Key elements in this strategy include developing and sharing intelligence on a national, EU and international basis, development of analytics and detection technologies, and ensuring optimum deployment of resources at point of importation and within the country, in order to intercept the contraband product and to prosecute those involved. Interception at the point of importation is achieved through a combination of risk analysis, profiling, intelligence, and the screening of cargo, vehicles, baggage and postal packages. Revenue enforcement officers also target this illicit trade at the post-importation level by carrying out intelligence-based operations and random checks at retail outlets, markets and private and commercial premises.
In 2011, Revenue's campaign against the illicit tobacco trade resulted in the seizure of 109 million cigarettes, valued at €46 million, and over 11,000 kilograms of tobacco, valued at €4 million. In addition, 101 convictions relating to tobacco smuggling, and 57 convictions concerning the sale of unstamped tax products, were obtained. To date in 2012, Revenue officers have seized 49 million cigarettes valued at €21 million and 1,436 kilograms of tobacco valued at €531,320. In addition 27 convictions relating to tobacco smuggling, and 29 convictions concerning the sale of unstamped tobacco products were obtained.
Revenue consistently monitors ongoing developments in available x-ray and other technologies, and the selection and deployment of detection equipment is constantly reviewed. The actual technology selected and the operational deployment of that technology is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners.
Revenue currently has two mobile X-ray container scanning systems. One scanner is based in Dublin Port and the other at Rosslare Ferry Port. Revenue deploys the scanners on a risk assessment basis at various locations throughout the country. Revenue is satisfied that the container ports in the State are adequately serviced by these scanners and has no plans to acquire additional container scanning systems. In addition to the container scanners, Revenue also uses smaller static baggage/ parcel scanners, which are deployed at all major ports, airports and postal depots.
Revenue are at an advanced stage in a tendering process for the supply of a mobile X-ray van, which will enhance its scanning capability at airports, ports and warehouses, and they expect to enter contract negotiations for the purchase of the van shortly. The cost of the purchase of the van will be part funded under an EU grant programme.
