Ireland Considers Raising Legal Tobacco Purchase Age to 21
According to a report from Irish Mirror on March 28, the Irish government is considering raising the legal age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly stated that he will recommend the government increase the legal age to buy tobacco as it is currently too easy for minors to access tobacco products.
Donald stated that he has been reviewing whether Ireland "can and should" raise the legal smoking age.
My personal opinion is that we should raise the age. If the government is willing, we are preparing relevant legislation. My recommendation to the government is that we should raise it from 18 to 21. This is an issue that I discussed with Dr. Tony Holohan and Professor Breda Smith when I first took office as Chief Medical Officer.
Donald also confirmed that the Irish government is considering expanding the ban on the use of e-cigarettes to outdoor smoking areas in places such as restaurants and other public spaces.
The minister also announced further measures to crack down on e-cigarettes and disposable e-cigarettes. He hopes to implement a ban on disposable e-cigarettes by the end of the year, targeting their flavors and packaging. He repeatedly emphasized that "bright colors" and bubblegum flavors of e-cigarettes are targeting young people.
Since the implementation of the smoking ban, the smoking rate in Ireland has decreased from 27% to 18%. Approximately 74 countries have followed Ireland's lead in banning indoor smoking. At the same time, it is prohibited to advertise e-cigarettes within 200 meters of cinemas showing children's films, on public service vehicles, at bus stops or train stations, and near schools. Young people will also be recruited to ensure that shops do not sell cigarettes or e-cigarettes to those under 18.
At the same time, the department also conducted tests on individuals who were selling cigarettes or e-cigarettes to individuals under the age of 18.
Fifteen, sixteen, and seventeen-year-old minors will be working with our HSE enforcement team to ensure compliance with the ban, and legal action will be taken if necessary if the ban is not followed.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
