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.