Nearly one in three cigarettes smoked in Cork ‘could be contraband’

Nearly one in every three cigarettes smoked in Cork city and county could be contraband, according to a survey which points to massive losses to Revenue from smuggling.

Figures point to a significant rise since 2011 in the amount of tobacco with unpaid duty coming into the region.

The Irish Tobacco Manufacturers’ Advisory Committee is demanding a fine of up to €100,00 for anyone involved in illegal trading or tobacco smuggling.