
According to the Irish Examiner report on April 30th, a memorandum will soon be submitted to the cabinet proposing to raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco from 18 to 21. Earlier this month, Irish Health Minister Stephen Donnelly stated his intention to seek government approval to ban the sale of tobacco products to those under 21, as part of a wider strategy to create a smoke-free generation.
Earlier this month, the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland welcomed Minister Donnelly's commitment to banning the sale of tobacco products to those under the age of 21. It published a position paper in 2022 outlining this as an effective policy measure, which has received strong public support in Ireland and has been successfully implemented in other countries. According to warnings, nearly one-fifth of those aged 15 and older in Ireland still smoke, which could have devastating health impacts.
According to sources, health officials are currently in the final stages of preparing a memorandum to present to the cabinet, which may be considered before the end of May for the implementation of this policy. The proposed legislation stems from a private member's bill previously put forward by newly appointed Secretary of State Colm Burke, who is responsible for public health affairs.
According to reports, the bill is relatively simple and, if approved by the cabinet, can quickly take effect. Although the legal age for selling nicotine inhalation products (such as e-cigarettes) was raised to 18 in December last year, the government is still working on further strengthening the legal control over the sale of e-cigarettes and their products.
Burke expressed that he has always been very concerned about the issue of smoking control because in Ireland, tobacco smoking remains the single biggest risk factor for disability and death. He said, "Every year, an estimated 4,500 people die from smoking and second-hand smoke exposure in our country."
According to estimates, diseases and disabilities caused by smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are significant, accounting for 13% of all cancer cases, 2% of total hospital admissions, 5% of inpatient populations, and 8% of all bedridden days. The estimated cost in public hospitals is 172 million euros.
Burke stated that he will do everything in his power and use all of his authority to fulfill the responsibilities of the Minister of Public Health in order to reduce smoking rates and promote a smoke-free society.
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.