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.
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