We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Counterfeit cigarette controls

Summary

Senator Noone describes software for identifying tax-paid cigarettes, warns of the health and revenue consequences of counterfeit tobacco, and supports regular budget debates.

On contraband and counterfeit cigarettes, I draw the attention of the House to interesting software launched in Switzerland, called Codentify, which is an app used to scan products to identify whether tax has been paid in the relevant State. While it is currently being used only for cigarettes, I am sure it could be applied to a variety of different products. Many counterfeit cigarettes brought in from the east are extremely dangerous from a health perspective as they contain dangerous substances. This also results in a loss of money for the Exchequer.

Comment on this

Can the Senator identify which cigarettes are not dangerous?

Comment on this
Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Senator Noone to continue, without interruption, please.

Comment on this

I thank Senator Crown for the interruption. The Senator knows well that I am on the same page as him when it comes to cigarettes. If we must have them in the country we should at least regulate how they are sold. I am supportive of Senator Crown's suggestion that we ban them from this country, but we live in the real world. The reality is that they are being sold illegally. If we could at least eradicate that it would be helpful.

I support Senator Quinn's call for a weekly or fortnightly debate on the budget between now and October. I believe that is crucial.

I draw the attention of the House to the fact that I will be launching the Strokestown International Poetry Festival in Roscommon this weekend. This is the 15th year of the festival, which is fully funded by the Arts Council. There will be a huge variety of Irish poets reading at the festival, which it is hoped will bring many people to the small town of Strokestown and create economic activity there.

Comment on this

Senator Leyden should take note.

Comment on this