Penalise those who purchase bootleg goods, retail group says

Retail Ireland is urging the government to introduce new penalties for consumers who knowingly purchase illegal products, including illicit tobacco.

It said new measures are needed in order to address the black market in Budget 2014.

A recent report estimates the loss to the exchequer at around €400m each year.

The organisation claims there are number of measures that could be introduced – including a freeze on excise duties and taxes – to prevent the price between legal and illegal products from widening and increased penalties for those convicted.

Retail Ireland Chairman Frank Gleeson said a consumer awareness campaign is also needed to inform people of the damage of black market purchases.

"We need a consumer awareness programme to inform people that they're damaging the public finances, and they're damaging their own finances- because [there will be] more taxes for people if this tax isn't collected from legitimate sources."