Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives of NFRN Ireland and thank them for their submission.

Undoubtedly, the idea of losing Revenue, particularly in the current economic situation, is of major concern to many. Mr. Sweeney's points are well made. It is always in our interests to combat the black market. What does he say to arguments made by respectable groups such as the Irish Heart Foundation, in a submission to the committee, that there is an excessive focus on the issue of smuggling as a means of arguing against increased taxation on tobacco? They argue that there is a proven link between taxation on tobacco and reduced risks and better health outcomes. They also argue that those such as the tobacco companies, but also the retailers, who argue against increases in tax on tobacco continue to raise prices. What does Mr. Sweeney say to those arguments?