Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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222. To ask the Minister for Finance the number of nitrous oxide canisters seized by the Revenue Commissioners on a monthly basis in each of the years of 2019 to 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45791/22]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by Revenue that a monthly breakdown of seizures of nitrous oxide canisters cannot be provided in the timeframe available. Revenue will respond directly to the Deputy with this information.

The annual breakdown of seizures of nitrous oxide from 2019 to date in 2022 is provided in the table below:

I am advised by Revenue that nitrous oxide is not prohibited and has a number of legitimate uses, for example in the food industry. However, where Revenue has reasonable grounds for believing that importations of nitrous oxide will not be used for legitimate purposes and is intended for human consumption as a psychoactive substance, then Revenue has the power to detain and seize nitrous oxide in accordance with the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010.

Revenue works closely with other relevant Departments and agencies in the State including An Garda Síochána, the Department of Justice and the Health Products Regulatory Authority in acting against the illegal drugs trade. I am assured by Revenue that combating the importation of any prohibited or restricted goods into this jurisdiction is, and will continue to be, a Revenue priority.