132. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the profile of goods seized by the Revenue Commissioner at each port for non-compliance with excise obligations; the quantity, nature and estimated market value of the goods concerned; the number and value of goods successfully claimed by the owner; the fate of goods not claimed by the owner in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53139/17]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe):I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that details of the goods seized for the years 2012 to 2017 (to the end of November), for non compliance with excise obligations at Irish ports, are set out in the tables. I am also advised that it is not possible to extract the data by reference to individual ports, in the time available, however Revenue have stated that they will write directly to the Deputy providing such a breakdown when it is available.

Goods are seized where an officer determines, following investigation, that they are liable to forfeiture under the Finance Acts. All excisable goods seized are either sold or destroyed. In limited circumstances vehicles may be appropriated to the State.

I am advised by Revenue that where a “notice of claim” is received, seeking the return of goods following seizure, the Revenue Commissioners initiate litigation proceedings for condemnation of the goods and forfeiture to the State. For the period in question there are seven instances where proceedings were taken and the goods were not returned.

Seizures of excise goods nationally by quantity and retail price at ports only  

Total seizures of excise goods nationally by quantity and retail price.