(1) Notwithstanding section 53(3) but subject to subsection (4), an accountable person may account for the tax chargeable under section 3(b) on goods imported into the State by the person in the return to be furnished by the person, under section 76 or 77, in respect of the taxable period in which the tax has become so chargeable.

(2) Where -

(a) in accordance with subsection (1), goods have been imported by an accountable person without payment of the tax chargeable on the importation of the goods, and

(b) the tax is not accounted for in a return furnished by the accountable person under section 76 or 77 in respect of the taxable period in which the tax has become so chargeable,

the tax chargeable in respect of the importation of the goods shall become due as if this section did not apply.

(3) Where the Revenue Commissioners are satisfied that -