Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 164: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will agree that the deterioration of the economy has led to an upsurge in criminal activity, particularly in counterfeit DVDs, clothes and cigarettes, all of which are aiding and abetting a thriving black market economy while damaging legitimate retailers nationwide; the steps he and the Garda will take to counteract this illegal activity, the proceeds of which end up in the hands of criminal gangs and dissident terrorist groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20986/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am of course, aware of the damage caused to the economy by the kind of activities referred to by the Deputy.

In September, 2008 I launched the Interdepartmental Report on DVD piracy. In line with the recommendations contained in that report, Garda officers have been appointed in each operational region to coordinate anti-piracy operations. Appropriate liaison structures have been established and enforcement contact groups are now in place in each region. In addition, a Detective Inspector in the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation has been assigned responsibility for coordinating the matter at national level.

The problem with cigarettes relates primarily to smuggling. While this is a matter primarily for the Revenue Commissioners, the Gardaí participate in joint operations where their support is required. This in turn has led to the seizure of a substantial amount of smuggled cigarettes.

The Gardaí will, of course, continue to cooperate with all the relevant authorities to counteract the problem referred to by the Deputy.