339. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Finance if the Revenue Commissioners, in its actions to combat the illicit trade of tobacco products has conducted searches of online websites; if so, how many seizures have been made due to illegal products being sold online; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13625/23]

340. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Finance if the Revenue Commissioners have discussed partnership measures with internet companies, particularly social media platform providers, to disrupt the sale of illicit tobacco products on their platforms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13626/23]

Michael McGrath Minister for Finance

I propose to take Questions Nos. 339 and 340 together.

I am advised by Revenue that it uses a range of measures to tackle the sale of illicit cigarettes, including online sales. At the core of these measures is identifying and targeting the smuggling of illicit tobacco products into the State, with a view to disrupting the supply chain, seizing the products and, where possible, prosecuting those involved. Revenue’s strategy involves developing and sharing intelligence on a national, EU and international basis, the use of analytics and detection technologies, which includes analysis of online activities, ensuring the optimum deployment of resources on a risk-focused basis.

The smuggling of tobacco products has a transnational and cross border dimension and, in addition to Revenue’s ongoing cooperation with An Garda Síochána in this area, Revenue also works closely with its counterparts in other jurisdictions including colleagues in Northern Ireland through the Cross Border Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), and international bodies including OLAF (the EU’s anti-fraud agency), Europol and the World Customs Organisation. I am informed that Revenue does not have partnership measures in place with internet companies.

Revenue’s analysis of online activity resulted in 39 seizures in 2022 and 11 seizures to date this year. I am aware that Revenue monitors trends in the illicit tobacco trade on an ongoing basis and adjusts its actions and redeploys its resources to counter any new developments or methodologies employed by the criminal gangs involved in that trade. I am satisfied that combating the threat that the illicit tobacco trade poses to legitimate business, consumers, and the Exchequer continues to be a priority for Revenue.

Finally, if businesses or members of the public have any information regarding the sale or supply of illicit tobacco, they can contact Revenue on the confidential free phone number 1800 295 295.