Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 July 2021
264. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Finance the reason shipments which have been routed orange at customs which means they have been stopped for document inspection are taking up to three weeks to be cleared which is causing hardship to small businesses which have already paid the very high costs of excise on the sale of goods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37241/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that where shipments are not green routed on arrival in Ireland, the time taken to resolve the matter is dependent on the specific issue that has given rise to the orange or red routing, the time taken to provide any supporting documentation needed on foot of a request from Revenue or another State agency and whether a physical inspection of the shipment is required. Revenue and the other State agencies clear shipments as quickly as possible once the business provides the necessary information or documentation.
I am further advised by Revenue that it is unaware of delays of three weeks once the necessary supporting documentation is provided. Revenue is aware of delays that occur prior to the provision of such information where the importer has difficulties obtaining the relevant information from other parties in the supply chain or where there is a breakdown in communications along the supply chain. Where a business encounters delays in clearing shipments, the business should contact Revenue on the Revenue Customs helpline - 01-7383685. The Customs helpline is manned on a 24/7 basis in order to assist businesses moving shipments through our ports and airports. In addition, Revenue also has a Brexit Queries mailbox - BrexitQueries@revenue.ie. If the Deputy forwards details of any instances where there have been such delays to my Department we will follow up with Revenue. Alternatively, he can forward details directly to Revenue for follow up.
