Cigarette-vending machines are to be outlawed and under-18s banned from selling tobacco products under tough new anti-smoking proposals.
Businesses and the public have until mid-January to give their views on the plans, which is contained in a Department of Health consultation document published yesterday.
The most controversial part would see around 7,000 cigarette-vending machines put out of business. The sector employs 145 people directly and is worth €175m to the economy.
Cormac Dunne of the Irish Cigarette Machine Operators Association said yesterday the machines were operated by tokens, which stopped under-18s using them.
"We service over 6,000 outlets across Ireland, including bars, pubs and hotels. Many members are one-man or small family operations.
"We have already sought meetings with the department and will be looking for more details."
The final proposals, which will be drafted into legislation by next June, cover both regular products and e-cigarettes, which under-18s will also be banned from selling or using.
Other proposals include:
- Banning the sale of tobacco products from events primarily intended for under-18s;
- Outlawing tobacco sales in stalls, booths, marquees, vans or trucks at events such as markets, festivals, concerts or sports outings;
- Imposing a minimum period of suspension from trading for retailers who breach anti-smoking laws;
- Introducing on-the-spot fines for some offences;
- Naming and shaming retailers convicted of offences;
- Introducing a licensing system for all outlets selling cigarettes as an alternative to the existing register.
The document said 5,200 people die as a direct result of diseases caused by tobacco use - 19pc of all deaths.
Source: Eilish O'Regan, Irish Independent, 03/12/14
Safer Student Nights
eBulletin
Poll
