Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Like Deputy McNamara, I speak with particular reference to the possible impact this increase will have on the levels of illicit trade and in parallel, the loss of revenue to the Exchequer. Probably no other Member of this House over the years has tabled as many parliamentary questions and adjournment debates as I have regarding the need to counteract the cross-Border trade in illicit products, be that in fuel, drink products, energy products or whatever. I am absolutely opposed to that and I have seen the gangs that made huge money in illicit trade over the years, including paramilitary organisations and others.

My understanding is that the Revenue Commissioners' own survey on illicit tobacco found that 30% of cigarettes in Ireland in 2022 were non-Irish duty paid. Therefore, they were illicit and-or from travel purchases, as referred to by Deputy McNamara. It has been represented to me also that this cost the Exchequer a staggering €384 million in 2022 alone, which was the highest level ever recorded. Based on Revenue's figures, it is estimated that illicit cigarette sales alone have cost the State €1.25 billion over the last five years. If that is correct, it is an enormous amount of money. It shows the type of rubbish product that is being consumed in this country, coming from illicit trade. My concern is that this 75 cent increase on cigarettes will drive smokers to seek out illegal products, thus aiding this criminal trade.

I want to put on the record of the House, as I have done in the past, that I am personally opposed to smoking and the consumption of tobacco products and wholeheartedly support our public health specialists and other clinicians who are advocating and working towards achieving a tobacco-free Ireland.

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