Peter Mathews (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Given that at least one in four cigarettes is contraband, the fines and penalties imposed on those who are caught carrying, shipping or selling contraband tobacco appear to be low. I do not know if this matter comes within the remit of the Minister as it may overlap with the portfolio of the Minister for Justice and Equality. An express provision stipulating that any shipper who is shown to have carried contraband in their cargoes will be fined €250,000 - with no opportunity for discussion or argument - would have a significant and positive effect on efforts to combat the contraband market. The reason is that shippers would carry out much more scrutiny of bills of lading and cargoes if they knew they could be fined €250,000 or €500,000.