Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

That is not primarily a legislative issue, however. I am aware of the connection between smuggling and dissident paramilitary activity but it would be wrong to be entirely reductionist because it is certainly not the case that the majority of smugglers are from paramilitary backgrounds. However, the fact of this connection throws light on the supposed ideals of such organisations.

Deputy Burton's comments on community policing and the graduation from contraband cigarettes to drugs are valid but there is no reason for the Garda to avoid acting against people who sell contraband. Whenever rates of excise duty are set for budgetary or health purposes, the impact on smuggling must be borne in mind. The higher the rate, the greater the incentive for smuggling. At the same time, however, one cannot lower the duties solely for that reason.

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