David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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174. To ask the Minister for Finance if funding will be provided for the purchase of two additional mobile X-ray scanners for the Revenue Commissioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13694/18]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by Revenue that they currently have three mobile container scanners and a specialist vehicle incorporating x-ray facilities and radiation detection technology for monitoring baggage and smaller items of cargo. All mobile scanners are available for deployment at ports and locations such as warehouses, as required.

Revenue monitors and assesses its needs in relation to detection technology on an ongoing basis, having regard to risk, developments in scanning and detection technology and the obsolescence of existing technology over time. Revenue has successfully applied from OLAF (European Anti Fraud Office) for a funding grant for part of the cost towards the purchase of a new mobile x-ray scanner van in 2018. I and my Department are open to considering any request from Revenue as regards the replacement or acquisition of new technology to support the important work of tackling fraud and smuggling.