John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 114: To ask the Minister for Finance, in view of the increased number of flights into Ireland West Airport Knock, County Mayo, his plans to appoint full-time customs staff at the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4869/12]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, although staff are not based full-time at Ireland West Airport Knock, there is a Customs presence for the majority of flights, including all flights from high risk destinations as determined by Revenue's risk analysis and profiling systems. Attendance by Customs officers is selective and targeted and is based on analysis and evaluation of national and international seizure trends, traffic frequency, routes and other risk indicators. Attendance can also be as a result of specific intelligence. A drugs detector dog is frequently in attendance and X-ray equipment is in regular use in the arrivals terminal. Flights with origins and destinations with a high-risk rating attract particular interest. Attendances by Customs officers cover the full range of flight times and are kept under constant review, in particular to take account of emerging smuggling trends and any traffic increases at the Airport. This approach is in line with international practice in smaller airports and is also an efficient use of limited resources. Revenue is aware of new flights commencing shortly at Knock and will keep the level and extent of customs controls under review, as necessary, based on risk analysis of those additional flights.