Written answers

Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Department of Finance

Coastal Patrol Services

10:00 pm

Photo of Michael RingMichael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 228: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of vessels in use by the Revenue Customs Services to patrol the coastline; the plans there are in view of the recent drug haul off the west coast to increase the number of vessels for use by the Revenue Customs Services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20648/07]

Photo of Brian CowenBrian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they work very closely with other Agencies in limiting and attempting to prevent the importation of drugs into the State. In the control of coastal smuggling, the co-operation of the Navy, the Garda Síochána, fishermen's organisations, harbour authorities and of coastal communities is hugely valuable. The Customs responsibility is for the coast itself and coastal waters.

As part of its strategy, Revenue purchased a 23 metre cutter, the RCC Suirbhéir, with full sea-going capability. This vessel began active work in 2005, with a specially trained and highly skilled crew of Revenue officials. Since then, it has proved its usefulness in patrolling coastal waters, drug seizures and building stronger ties with coastal communities. It has taken part in several operations, including international operations to track and investigate suspicious vessels. Its role was crucial recently in the recovery of drugs at Dunlough Bay in Cork, and off the Galway coast.

The RCC Suirbhéir provides critical support to Customs activity, as does other equipment, such as the container scanner based at Dublin. Their effectiveness however, depends on support, especially in the form of intelligence, from their Revenue colleagues, from other agencies (including international counterparts) and from members of the public. In the case of the RCC Suirbhéir, its greatest value is in providing a rapid and effective response when suspicious activity is reported.

Revenue is currently engaged in preparing a new Statement of Strategy for 2008-2010 and will also be reviewing its strategy in relation to smuggling, especially drug smuggling. This review will include investigation of the most effective methods of monitoring coastal traffic, using the most modern available methods. Consideration of the acquisition of new marine craft, whether of the same type as the existing cutter, or of different types for specific purposes, will be an intrinsic part of that review. The experience of the past two years, including recent drug finds, will of course be taken into account.

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