Smoking in Ireland
In Ireland, smoking is legally allowed but controlled by comprehensive tobacco control regulations. Cigarettes are regulated as tobacco products and are permitted for sale and use with some restrictions. They may be purchased through retail outlets, online platforms, and vending machines. The importation of cigarettes for trade is allowed with a license. However, health warnings on packaging are mandatory, the minimum legal age for purchase is 18 years, and there are legal restrictions on smoking in public places. In addition, a complete ban on all tobacco advertising is in force. Cigarettes in Ireland are subject to an excise tax of 48.53% and a total taxation rate of 76.06%. Despite these regulatory and control measures, smoking continues to contribute to the national health burden. In 2024, there were approximately 730,000 current smokers in Ireland, representing an adult smoking prevalence of 17.2%. In the same year, prevalence was higher among males (20%) than females (14.6%). This prevalence was recorded to be 18.2% in 2022. In 2023, the adult daily tobacco smoking prevalence was 14%, with an estimated 675,956 daily smokers. In 2021, smoking caused 3,836 deaths in Ireland, including 2,291 deaths among males and 1,546 among females. Overall, tobacco smoking resulted in 11.89% of all deaths in 2021, representing 13.62% of male deaths and 10.01% of female deaths. These statistics underscore the continued public health impact of smoking cigarette in Ireland.
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July 03, 2025 by irishexaminer.com
HSE issues vapes alert on six e-cigarettes falsely labelled as nicotine-free
The HSE warns against using six mislabeled vapes containing high levels of nicotine. Customers can return them to the store where purchased. Identified products are listed, with nicotine levels up to 30 mg/ml. Retailers are urged to ensure compliance to prevent risks and legal consequences. Irish regulations prohibit vape sales to under-18s and propose further restrictions on vape products, including color and flavor limits. Concerns persist about vaping's impact on smoking rates, prompting ongoing policy reviews. The Public Health Bill aims to curb youth vaping. Legislation was passed to raise the tobacco sales age to 21. Tobacco Free Ireland policy is being reviewed to achieve a tobacco-free country.
July 03, 2025 by irishtimes.com
Public warned to avoid e-cigarettes from two brands after EU health alert
The HSE's NEHS warns the public to avoid e-cigarettes from two brands falsely labeled as nicotine-free. Tests revealed nicotine levels up to 30 mg/ml. Brands include McKesse MK Bar 700 and Bank Box 18000 Puffs in various flavors. Consumers can return them to the store and retailers are asked to halt sales. The HSE will take legal actions to protect public health, including product seizure and prosecutions. Retailers must verify products and suppliers. A recall notice is mandatory for sellers.
June 23, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com
Bloomberg’s War on Harm Reduction Faces Consumer Backlash at Tobacco Conference
The World Conference on Tobacco Control in Dublin features the launch of the campaign "Voices Unheard – Consumers Matter!" by the World Vapers’ Alliance, advocating for consumer inclusion in tobacco control debates. Consumers demand a seat at the table to share their experiences and the benefits of reduced-risk products. The campaign responds to the WHO's proposed ban on flavored nicotine products, highlighting the need for evidence-based harm reduction policies. Consumers deserve a voice in decision-making processes to ensure policies prioritize public health effectively. The campaign aims to challenge the exclusion of consumer perspectives and push for genuine inclusion in global tobacco control discussions.
June 23, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com
Bloomberg’s War on Harm Reduction Faces Consumer Backlash at Tobacco Conference
The World Vapers’ Alliance launches “Voices Unheard – Consumers Matter!” at the World Conference on Tobacco Control in Dublin, highlighting the absence of consumer perspectives in global tobacco discussions. Advocating for inclusion in decision-making, the campaign opposes bans on safer nicotine products. As the WHO calls for restrictions, the campaign stresses the importance of evidence-based harm reduction policies. Ahead of COP11 in Geneva, it urges policymakers to listen to consumers impacted by tobacco regulations. The initiative aims to amplify voices silenced by policy decisions, emphasizing the need for genuine inclusion and recognition of the benefits of harm reduction methods for smoking cessation.
June 16, 2025 by irishtimes.com
Tobacco companies want tighter age rules on sale of nicotine pouches
Vaping and tobacco companies in Ireland called for regulations on nicotine pouches and e-vapour products due to concerns about appealing to young people. Japan Tobacco International and British American Tobacco urged for age restrictions and health warnings on packaging. The companies emphasized the need to prevent underage sales and reduce nicotine concentrations. Meanwhile, a vaping retailer criticized proposed strict regulations on vaping products and suggested alternative measures, including better enforcement and a deposit scheme for disposable devices. The companies' concerns were acknowledged by the Minister for Health.
June 12, 2025 by irishexaminer.com
Freely available nicotine replacement therapy raises rate of people who quit smoking
Research in Ireland shows higher smoking cessation rates after the introduction of free nicotine replacement therapy. The study found that access to free NRT led to 41% of smokers quitting after four weeks, compared to 29% when it was not free. The findings suggest the benefits of providing free NRT to smokers. The study also noted an increase in NRT uptake and identified groups, such as women and long-term smokers, benefitting from the free therapy. The results highlight the importance of universal NRT access in promoting successful smoking cessation and call for equitable access on an international scale to combat smoking-related deaths.
June 05, 2025 by daily-pouch.com
Nicotine Pouches: A Credible Lifeline for Irish Vapers?
The Irish government and media are creating a hostile environment for vaping, prompting consideration of nicotine pouches as an alternative. Ireland's transformative relationship with the EU faced challenges during the financial crisis, revealing issues with the union's governance. Vaping policies align with broader EU/WHO initiatives against harm reduction, with restrictions harming public health efforts. The government's failure to support vaping led citizens to seek alternative solutions. Nicotine pouches could offer a harm reduction option, though government regulation poses a threat. Advocates urge Irish vapers to explore this alternative and prepare for potential regulatory battles. Misguided anti-vaping sentiments hinder public health progress, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making and advocacy.
June 04, 2025 by imt.ie
Smoking Cessation: Overview of Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options
Smoking is a major health issue among young adult men in Ireland, with high prevalence rates leading to preventable diseases and mortality. Despite a decline, smoking remains more common among men, particularly aged 25-34. Men face barriers to quitting like perceived invulnerability and social influences. Smoking increases risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, and reproductive issues. Pharmacological options like NRT, varenicline, bupropion, and cytisine are effective, with NRT available through the HSE. Behavioral interventions and support, such as counseling and digital tools, are crucial for cessation success. Combining pharmacological and behavioral support improves quitting rates. A comprehensive approach tailored to young men is essential for successful smoking cessation in Ireland.
May 22, 2025 by thejournal.ie
Most teenagers who vape had never smoked cigarettes before, and 14 is the most common age to start
Research shows most teenage vapers had not smoked cigarettes before starting. The average age for starting e-cigarettes was 14. The study by the TobaccoFree Research Institute of Ireland revealed 76% of e-cig users had never tried traditional cigarettes first. While overall smoking rates are down, 13% of 16-year-old girls still smoke. Additionally, 36% had tried a nicotine product, and 24% admitted to trying smoking. Alcohol consumption among 15 to 16-year-olds has decreased, with two-thirds ever trying it and 28% ever getting drunk. The study highlights a rise in alternative tobacco products among teenagers.
May 13, 2025 by irishexaminer.com
HSE warns people to stop using three vapes which are mislabelled as having no nicotine
The HSE warns against three vapes falsely labeled as "no nicotine," containing high nicotine levels. Products include Crystal Bling 6000+, McKesse MK Bar 7000, and JNR Crystal Pro Max 5000+. Consumers feeling unwell should contact a GP and notify HSE via [email protected]. The vapes exceed permitted nicotine concentrations and liquid volumes, risking consumer safety. HSE emphasizes retailers' responsibility in verifying product compliance to prevent harm and legal breaches. Distributors and importers are advised to ensure proper safety, quality, and labeling of e-cigarettes. Retailers importing from non-EU countries must comply with regulations. Vigilance in product checks is crucial to protect public health, HSE emphasizes.