214. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a breakdown of the number of seizures of cannabinoids (cannabis edibles) products by the Revenue Commissioners for each of the years 2018 to 2022 and to date in 2023, in tabular form; the estimated street value or worth of those seizures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25751/23] 

Michael McGrath, Minister for Finance: Revenue has primary responsibility for the prevention, detection, interception and seizure of controlled drugs intended to be smuggled or illegally imported into, or exported from, the State. I am advised by Revenue that controlled drugs incorporate drug infused sweets, including cannabis and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) infused jellies. Cannabis/THC jellies are edible products that contain synthetic THC, being the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant.

I am further advised by Revenue that its drugs interdiction strategy supports the Governments strategic approach to the misuse of drugs under the National Drugs Strategy 2017-2025. 

A breakdown of seizures of cannabinoid products and the estimated street value of these seizures from 2018 to 2023 year to date inclusive are provided below in tabular form:

This Government is acutely aware of the sustained and significant damage that the importation of illicit drugs has on communities across the country and are particularly aware of the dangers posed, particularly to children, of cannabis edibles. The drug seizures outlined above were detected at key points of entry into the State, including ports, airports, postal and parcel courier hubs. I am advised by Revenue that it deploys enforcement personnel on a risk assessment basis at airports, ports and mail hubs/postal depots where goods enter the State with a view to optimising the impact of its efforts to address all aspects of illegal importations.