A Fine Gael TD has called for tougher controls on the use of open-source internet browsers and payment systems which allow users to remain anonymous in the illegal trade of drugs, weapons and pornography.

Limerick deputy Patrick O'Donovan has written to the Oireachtas Communications Committee, of which he is a member, asking it to investigate the matter.

"An online black market is operating which protects the users' anonymity and operates across borders through the use of open source internet browsers and payments systems which allow users to remain anonymous" he said.

"This effectively operates as an online supermarket for illegal goods such as drugs, weapons and pornography, where it is extremely difficult to trace the identity of the buyers. We need a national and international response to clamp down on this illicit trade" he added.

He says he has written to the Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Communications, John O'Mahony, asking this matter be examined by the Committee.

"I believe that the Committee should invite relevant agencies including the gardaí, Customs and officials from relevant government departments to participate" he said.

Mr. O'Donovan says he also intends to raise the issue in the Dáil - with a view to seek assurances that "an EU-wide response is developed to respond to the operation of open-source internet browsers which protect anonymity in order to facilitate illegal online activity".

A report last year projected a doubling in the Irish internet economy to €11.3 billion annually by 2016.

The UPC survey on Ireland's Digital Future said this will be underpinned by 2.6 million Irish online shoppers spending €5.7 billion - or 7% of all consumer spending. This is compared to €3.7 billion back in 2012.

While the internet economy currently accounts for roughly 3% of Irish GDP, this is set to double to 6% over the next 3 years.