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Smoking in Ireland

Daily tobacco smoking prevalence is at 14%.

Read articles from Ireland

September 10, 2024 by todayfm.com

Plans To Ban Sale Of Disposable Vapes

Disposable vapes sale ban and flavored nicotine prohibition are planned to deter youth vaping. Health Minister Donnelly aims for less appeal to youngsters through legislation including flavor bans. Oireachtas approval is needed for these laws. Previously, prohibiting cape sales to under 18s was enforced.

August 01, 2024 by independent.ie

Tax on vapes and e-cigarettes on the way as bank levy is likely to continue in the Budget

A tax on e-cigarettes and vapes is on the way in the Budget after sources confirmed preliminary work had been done by the Department of Finance. The move was signalled last year by Ireland’s new EU Commissioner Michael McGrath in his only budget as finance minister.

August 01, 2024 by irishexaminer.com

Tax on vapes and e-cigarettes to be introduced in October's budget

The Finance Minister confirmed plans to introduce a tax on vapes and e-cigarettes next year. The 9% Vat rate for the hospitality sector is unlikely to return. Changes to inheritance tax and income tax thresholds are expected in the upcoming budget. Measures to support pensioners and address the cost of living, including maintaining the 9% Vat rate on gas and electricity over winter, are priorities. Introducing a levy on vapes and potential tax increases on cigarettes are being considered. Overall, the budget aims to support public health, reduce smoking, and provide significant support for pensioners and vulnerable groups.

July 08, 2024 by ireland-live.ie

Government told ‘no time to waste’ reviving smoking ban legislation

Over 1,000 health experts urge the government to prioritize phasing out smoking by reintroducing legislation banning young individuals from smoking. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, seen as crucial for public health, had broad support but was shelved due to a General Election. Advocates stress the importance of prioritizing this bill to save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and combat youth vaping. Experts emphasize the urgent need to prevent marketing vapes to children while making them available for adult smokers. The UK has an opportunity to lead globally in eradicating smoking, and experts call on the government to seize this chance.

June 06, 2024 by rte.ie

HSE issues e-cigarette alert over illegal nicotine levels

The HSE warns of high nicotine levels in specific e-cigarette products, urging the public to avoid using them. Retailers are asked to stop selling and customers to return the E-LIQUID and QST Puff Flex products mentioned. The National Tobacco Control Office flagged the issue to the EU due to nicotine levels exceeding safety limits. Laboratory tests revealed nicotine content in E-LIQUID at 25.4mg/ml and QST Puff Flex above 30mg/ml. The HSE advises affected consumers to report any adverse effects and contact their GP. Manufacturers are reminded of their responsibility for product compliance and safety. Retailers must remove and report the products. Individuals are advised to check their e-cigarettes and return the mentioned products for public safety.

June 06, 2024 by irishexaminer.com

HSE warns over e-cigarette and refill with illegal levels of nicotine

The HSE has issued safety alerts for e-cigarettes with high nicotine levels. Two products - QST Puff Flex and E-LIQUID Tobaccon - were found to exceed legal limits. Consumers are advised to return them and seek medical help if needed. The HSE contacted distributors and emphasized their responsibility for product safety. Dr. Mulcahy stressed compliance with legislative requirements and warned of enforcement actions if needed. Retailers were instructed to stop selling these items and to recall them. Efforts were made to inform affected parties and uphold safety standards for e-cigarette products.

May 14, 2024 by rte.ie

Cabinet agrees ban on sale of tobacco to those under 21

Ireland's Cabinet approved banning tobacco sales to under 21s, aiming to lower smoking rates and prevent health issues. Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly aims for fast-tracking the legislation, differentiating from the UK due to EU regulations. Vapes excluded due to health advice as a quitting aid. Retail workers aged 18-21 can still sell tobacco. Ireland sets to reduce adult smoking from 18% to under 5%, following prior workplace smoking bans. The law won't affect current 18-20-year-olds. Smoking contributes to various diseases and high mortality rates, prompting the move for a healthier population.

May 13, 2024 by irishexaminer.com

Catherine Conlon: Time to tackle vaping with strong legislation

Vaping's rapid rise among youth is causing concern over long-term health effects. New research reveals hazards in e-liquids, especially fruity and sweet flavors youth prefer. Legislation banning vape sales to under-18s and restricting marketing is crucial. Several countries have already implemented bans or restrictions. Urgent action is needed to regulate vaping to protect young people's health and the environment. The Royal College of Physicians of Ireland supports strong regulations to address the growing vaping trend among youth. As vaping becomes increasingly popular, swift and robust legislation is essential to mitigate potential health risks associated with long-term vape use, particularly among young individuals.

May 09, 2024 by rte.ie

Future cancers may emerge from long-term vaping - expert

Professor O'Shea from the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland warns that vaping exposes users to toxic compounds, leading to future cancers and cardiovascular issues. New research shows flavored vapes contain harmful chemicals, with fruit and candy flavors being particularly risky. Restrictions on flavors are urged, especially for the youth. Heating vape liquids creates numerous potentially hazardous compounds. Differences in vape devices make it challenging to assess risks accurately. Vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking according to the HSE. Research using artificial intelligence highlights dangers in vaping. Long-term exposure to vapes may result in severe health consequences in the future, with specific attention needed for young non-smokers.

May 03, 2024 by irishexaminer.com

Parents of children as young as 10 calling national helpline over vaping concerns

Parentline reports a significant increase in calls from worried parents about vaping and e-cigarettes among children, with 76 calls in the first four months of this year compared to 10 last year. Some parents believe vaping is causing anxiety in their children. The rise in anxiety-related calls is also linked to school-related stress and challenges reintegrating post-Covid. The charity emphasizes concerns about children showing anger and aggression towards parents. The HSE warns of mental health issues associated with e-cigarette use. Parentline operates a national helpline for parenting support, receiving calls on a variety of issues.