183. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he has sought EU funding to cover the cost of purchasing additional backscatter vans for the Revenue Commissioners. [52650/26]

I am advised that Revenue is committed to targeting the illegal importation and exportation of prohibited and restricted goods and it implements a range of measures to identify and target illegal smuggling, including duty free tobacco and alcohol in excess of duty-free allowances, and where possible, prosecuting those involved. Revenue’s approach involves the use of analytics and detection technologies and ensuring the optimum deployment of resources on a risk-focused basis. In that context, I understand that operational requirements and arrangements regarding the deployment and use of detection technology and resources, including x-ray scanners and detector dog teams, are kept under regular review by Revenue having regard to ongoing risk assessment of smuggling and criminal activities and evolving operational needs.

I am informed that the suite of X-ray scanners available to officers at the main points of entry, range from hand-held scanning devices to scan small packages, baggage scanners for the scanning of passenger luggage and parcels and mobile scanners to scan vehicles and containers. Revenue’s X-ray container scanning capacity of three mobile container units and its backscatter van allows for the deployment to any port or other relevant location, such as warehouses, throughout the country, having regard to risk and operational needs.

In addition to this, as part of the redevelopment of Rosslare Europort, a new high energy X-ray gantry system was deployed in October 2025. This is the first high energy X-ray gantry system to be deployed in the State and will be used to scan containerised freight and vehicles as required.

Revenue sought and received funding to procure a specialised backscatter van in 2026. This is in addition to the current backscatter van based in Dublin Port. A backscatter van is a low power X-ray scanner mounted in a standard van that is used to scan vehicles, trailers and other light vehicles.

I am advised that Revenue do not presently see a need for additional mobile x-ray scanners or backscatter vans. However, Revenue’s operational requirements are kept under continuous review.