Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
601. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the average processing time for inspections and clearance of fresh cut flower imports at Dublin Airport Border Control Post in each of the past five years; the number of consignments delayed beyond 24 hours during that period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52981/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department facilitates the timely movement of imports through Dublin Airport Border Control Post (BCP). Import controls are carried out in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/625 and implementing regulations, which require 24 hours’ notice of imports to be provided to the BCP.
Processing time for inspection and clearance of fresh-cut flower imports varies and depends on several external factors. Prior notification is required for the BCP to facilitate documentary checks and physical inspection.
While we acknowledge that providing 24-hour advance notice of arrival and submitting air shipment documentation is not always possible, the minimum legal requirement of 4 hours' prior notification must be provided for long-haul flights before arrival at the airport.
Considering the perishable nature of consignments, documentary checks are performed, where possible, within the notification period. However, the BCP still requires reasonable advance notice to facilitate the scheduling of consignments for inspection.
Delays in providing prior notification or providing complete and accurate documentation can result in delays in the release of consignments. Errors, omissions or missing documentation cause delays as a consignment cannot be scheduled for inspection until all documentation is received and has successfully passed the documentary check.
Additional delays may arise where responses to requests for further documentation are not provided promptly. ePhytocerts should be used, where applicable, to reduce delays. Delays in the presentation of consignments at the scheduled inspection time or in the collection of consignment post clearance, have been identified as reasons for delays.
Where issues arise regarding import consignment clearance, these are handled on a case-by-case basis with input from the BCP inspector, the operator responsible for the consignment, facility management and other agencies as required.
