The Irish Government has approved legislation to increase the minimum legal age for the sale of tobacco products to 21.
Ireland's Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly announced on Tuesday, June 25, that the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Bill 2024 will now be brought forward for enactment.
The measure has been introduced to reduce the prevalence of smoking among adults in Ireland, which has plateaued at around 18% in recent years.
It also aims to reduce smoking rates among children in Ireland to zero.
Pleased to get Cabinet approval today for legislation to raise the age for people to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21.
— Stephen Donnelly (@DonnellyStephen) June 25, 2024
This is an important public health measure and will save lives. Looking forward to introducing this Bill @OireachtasNews pic.twitter.com/cYj8ysIJvu
"As a society, it’s time that we moved forward on this issue," Donnelly said in a statement.
"Tobacco smoking continues to kill 4,500 of our people every year and remains the biggest single cause of disability and death combined in our country.
"My goal with this measure is to assist our young people to avoid a lifetime of addiction and illness from tobacco smoking.
"The modeling shows us that this measure will not only protect the targeted age group but will also protect those under 18 as they will be less likely to be in social groups with 21-year-olds who can legally purchase cigarettes."
Donnelly said countries around the world are exploring "endgame" measures to "eliminate" tobacco smoking, not just regulate it.
"I’m very proud that Ireland is continuing its tradition of leading the way on this issue, and today’s measure is another important step on our journey towards a tobacco-free Ireland."
Ireland will be the first EU member state to introduce the measure.
A lead-in time will also be implemented for people currently aged over 18 but under 21 so that they will not be affected by the legislation and can continue to purchase tobacco products.
Colm Burke, the Minister of State with responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, welcomed the legislation.
"I welcome government approval of this very important public health measure. The damage caused by combustible tobacco smoking is catastrophic, causing many illnesses and leading to shorter life expectancy, so we must take decisive action to ensure that we can protect our young people.
"This new measure will help the next generation to avoid the many burdens associated with smoking and support them to live longer, healthier lives. I look forward to working with the Minister for Health to bring this law into operation as soon as possible."
Comments