More than a half-year ago, Interior Minister Sandis Girgen submitted proposals in the Ministry of Justice Working Group to amend the Criminal Law, which would provide for the establishment of criminal bitides regarding the illicit sale of tobacco products, regardless of the quantity thereof, and would allow it to be combated at all stages. On Wednesday, May 27, the Saeima Legal Affairs Commission directed the amendments to the Saeima, but they were substantially adjusted, excluding persons who only offer to buy illegal cigarettes but who do not actually have them. This will not completely solve the problem of illegal cigarette sales.
“The illegal cigarette chain must be eradicated at all stages: following an amendment in 2009, there are administrative fines imposed on illegal cigarette dealers, which no one pays nor can be enforced. All these years, without taking the right legislative steps, the state has allowed this gray market to flourish. The Justice Department's adjusted amendments don't take into account those people who offer cigarettes, but who “on hand” almost never have them, which is an integral part of the illicit cigarette movement. The Central Market kiosks were partially demolished, but the trade is continuing and will continue. It is not clear why legislative gaps are being created which will allow the continued maintenance of illegal industry, , says Interior Minister Sandis Girgens.
The current amendments have already taken a significant step, but the problem needs to be addressed in the packages and also on the supply side, so after the first reading of the above amendments, the Minister for the Interior will re-make proposals in the Saeima.
Prepared by:
Beata Jonite
Minister of the Interior Councillor for Communications.
Mob.: 28351588
E-mail: beata.jonite@iem.gov.lv