Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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154. To ask the Minister for Finance if his Department has conducted any analysis of the potential impact of cross-Border smuggling on the economy as a result of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11474/17]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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155. To ask the Minister for Finance the discussions he has had on the issue of cross-Border smuggling and its potential impact on the economy with his EU counterparts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11475/17]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 155 together.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners, who are responsible for combating smuggling, that action against this criminal activity is, and will continue to be, a central element of their work, including in the context of Brexit. 

The Government priorities for Brexit are clear:  minimising the impact on trade and the economy, protecting the Northern Ireland Peace Process, maintaining the Common Travel Area and influencing the future of the European Union. A programme of intense engagement at political and official level is continuing to ensuring that our priorities are heard and understood across Europe, and that the EU's position for the forthcoming negotiations reflects our priorities.