A TOTAL OF 1,540 seizures of counterfeit goods have been made already in the first quarter of 2013, according to figures from the Revenue Commissioners.

In response to a parliamentary question this week, Finance Minister Michael Noonan revealed that the value of counterfeit goods seized this year had a totaled €819,684.

He said the range of goods seized is “extensive” and includes body care items, clothing and accessories, mobile phones and other electronic equipment, CDs, DVDs and toys.

In 2012 a total of 5,580 seizures were made with a value of €5,437,334 and Noonan said he recognised the value of raising consumer awareness of the negative impact of the trade in counterfeit goods. He also said it was important for consumers to know about the potential safety risks involved.

The finance mininster said he believes that “the holders of intellectual property rights have a key role to play in conveying this message to consumers” and can help gardaí in confirming the status of suspected counterfeit goods.

“I understand that Revenue works with other stakeholders, where possible, to highlight the problems associated with such goods and will continue to avail of all opportunities that arise to raise the public’s awareness regarding counterfeit goods.”

Those convicted of illegally importing counterfeit goods could face a fine of €126,790 or in the case of goods with a value of over €250,000, a fine of three times the value of the goods, or a prison sentence of up to five years, or both.

Noonan said there are no proposals at present to increase these penalties, but the position will be kept under review and he said gardaí and the Revenue Commissioners work closely together and with international operations to tackle the problem.

Read: Cigarettes, tobacco and counterfeit vodka seized in €1.5 million sting operation>
Read: What happens to the things that the gardaí or Revenue seize?>