Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Mar 1998

Vol. 488 No. 2

Written Answers. - Proceedings Against Tobacco Companies.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

59 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress, if any, that has been made by him with regard to the institution of court proceedings by the State and by each health board against tobacco companies for the damaging impact of their products on the health of those who use them; and if the Government intends to provide any financial assistance or protection for private citizens who are instituting or who have instituted civil court proceedings seeking damages against tobacco companies. [5476/98]

Gay Mitchell

Question:

60 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress, if any, that has been made by him with regard to the institution of court proceedings by the State and by each health board against tobacco companies for the damaging impact of their products on the health of those who use them; and if the Government intends to provide any financial assistance or protection for private citizens who are instituting or who have instituted civil court proceedings seeking damages against tobacco companies. [5475/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 60 together.

I have established a group of senior health personnel to advise me on this matter. My officials are monitoring the litigation in the United States and other jurisdictions and when the group reports to me I will make a determination on the matter.

With regard to providing direct financial assistance for private citizens who are instituting or have instituted civil court proceedings against tobacco companies I have decided that to follow such a course of action in respect of every individual case or firm who applies would constitute an inefficient use of public funds and could give rise to certain inequities. However, I have instructed officials to monitor developments and to consider how the public interest might best be served in this matter.