John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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286. To ask the Minister for Finance his plans to change the branding of the Customs and Excise from its current format to one that highlights Revenue rather than Customs and Excise; the rationale behind this decision; if a consultation process was put in place to determine the views and opinions of all stakeholders; if the unions were consulted; if the change of branding is part of an overhaul of the type of work carried out by the Customs and Excise and an extension of the brief and powers operated by Customs and Excise officials; if a contract has been, or is in the process of being, awarded for new branding on vehicles, uniforms, stationery, and so on; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20209/15]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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Decisions in relation to the branding and logo of Revenue are matters for the Revenue Commissioners and not for me as Minister for Finance and I am satisfied with the approach taken by the Commissioners in relation to these issues.  I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that their corporate logo was amended to "Revenue/Cáin agus Custaim na hÉireann/Irish Tax and Customs" in 2010.  The logo reflects Revenue's mandate which includes collecting taxes and duties and administering the customs regime for the control of imports and exports.  The logo also reflects the fact that, since the 1990s, Revenue has progressively integrated its various activities in the interests of greater efficiency and effectiveness.

The decision to modify the corporate logo was communicated to all staff in Revenue in September 2010. The logo was registered with the Patents Office in 2011. 

The new logo has been introduced as opportunities arose in the normal course of business.  Since 2010, the new logo has been introduced on a phased basis in  signage for Revenue offices, buildings and vehicles etc. as new orders are placed.  The phased approach to rebranding was adopted to minimise costs. 

At present, a tender process for uniforms worn by Revenue enforcement staff is being run by the Office of Government Procurement to replace the existing contract which has now expired. The new tender now  presents an opportunity to implement the 2010 decision in relation to the uniform and associated badge.  Extensive consultations, including with all Divisions involved in wearing Revenue uniforms, have taken place.  The new badge which will incorporate elements of the existing registered logo, will be registered as a trademark of Revenue along with the existing logo.

The adoption of a new badge does not in any way affect the duties of Revenue officials or delivery of service to the public.  Where customs functions are being performed at ports, airports etc., the relevant areas and offices will be clearly signposted as "Customs".