Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 325: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps that An Garda Síochána is taking to counteract the sale of illicit or counterfeit tobacco products at markets here; the number of arrests made and prosecutions made relating to this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19773/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Law enforcement in relation to the smuggling of tobacco products and the sale of illicit or counterfeit tobacco products within the State is primarily a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. In tackling this trade, the strategy employed by Revenue Commissioners includes not only interception measures at points of importation, but also the targeting of this illicit trade at the post-importation level by carrying out intelligence-based operations and random checks at retail outlets, markets and private and commercial premises. Revenue enforcement officers also carry out regular multi-agency operations, particularly in relation to large maritime importations and in checks at inland markets.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that in 2010, 41 convictions were secured under the Finance Acts by the Revenue Commissioners for illegal selling of unstamped tobacco products with total fines of €107,750 and 7 custodial sentences and 2 community service orders imposed. A majority of the offences in question related to sales of illicit tobacco product at inland markets. Furthermore in 2011 to date, 19 convictions for illegal selling of unstamped tobacco products were secured by the Revenue Commissioners with total fines of €48,200 and 2 custodial sentences being imposed.

The Revenue Commissioners are fully supported in this area of work by An Garda Síochána. Searches are regularly undertaken by members of An Garda Síochána, as part of intelligence-led operations led by Revenue, which have resulted in significant seizures of cigarettes. Apart from the high profile seizures, An Garda Síochána also continue on a District and Divisional basis to target those involved in the sale and distribution of illegal products, at markets and via door-to-door sales. Finally I can assure the Deputy that tackling this form of criminality remains a priority for our law enforcement agencies.