The smuggling of counterfeit designer goods into Ireland appears to be increasing, despite stricter laws and greater powers of enforcement.
"In Ireland, it's quite a large problem at the moment," says Mr Garrett Breen of the intellectual property unit at A&L Goodbody solicitors. "Goods are being imported here as the first entry point into the EU from third countries," says Mr Breen, who is also Irish representative for the British-based Anti-Counterfeiting Group.
Recent seizures by Customs & Excise officials at seaports and airports highlight the extent of the problem - and the potential losses to manufacturers and retailers of genuine products.
Recently, nine tonnes of counterfeit designer goods worth over £1 million was seized and 12 individuals suspected of smuggling the clothes were arrested.
In June, counterfeit designer leisurewear worth £250,000 was seized, including a vast quantity of designer-branded buttons.
The designers most commonly counterfeited are Umbro, Tommy Hilfiger, Timberland, Calvin Klein, Adidas, Nike, Versace, Ralph Lauren and Dolce & Gabbana.
Losses suffered due to counterfeiters are quite high, says Mr Breen. "It's very difficult to give an estimate, but worldwide it's billions."
Ireland may be seen as a soft option for smugglers now facing tighter controls in Britain. Two years ago, Irish and EU laws were strengthened to combat such crimes. "The laws are perfectly adequate at the moment. Raids are occurring as customs and police have wide powers. The offences under the Trademarks Act 1996 are arrestable offences," says Mr Breen.