Vol. 486 No. 1
549 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures, if any, he is considering to curtail the advertising of tobacco products in newspapers and magazines; the measures, if any, which have been taken to date in 1998 in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1340/98]
I am conducting a general review on health and smoking policy and as part of this review I will be looking at the area of advertising and sponsorship. When this review is completed I will make a further statement on the matter.
Advertising on tobacco products in newspapers and magazines is currently restricted by the Tobacco Products (Control of Advertising, Sponsorship and Sales Promotion) Regulations, 1991 and amendments. The regulations among other things provide for curtailment of expenditure on advertising of tobacco products by tobacco companies.
At European Union level Ireland supports the introduction of a ban on advertising of tobacco products in member states.
On 4 December last a measure was agreed by the Council of Health Ministers to introduce a complete Europe wide ban on the advertising of tobacco products. While there are a number of further stages to be completed before we finally adopt the measure I am confident that it will be successful. I intend to introduce the necessary legislation to give effect to the measure as soon as possible.
