Vol. 515 No. 2
190 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the decisions, if any, taken by him since assuming his current position to implement the national anti-smoking strategy proposed in the report by the Joint Committee on Health and Children, Smoking and Health: A National Anti-Smoking Strategy; and the timescale envisaged for implementation of the proposals. [4871/00]
The report by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children referred to by the Deputy has been given careful and detailed consideration by the tobacco free policy group which has just finalised its own report to me. I will be publishing the report of the tobacco free policy group very shortly.
I have indicated to the Chief Whip that I would support the request from the health committee to ask the compellability committee for powers to summon documents and witnesses for an inquiry into the tobacco industry.
I have provided funding for the establishment this year of an office of tobacco control. The primary functions of this office will be to co-ordinate and monitor the implementation of policy and to discharge all executive functions in relation to tobacco control. I am advised that work is under way to secure suitable premises and to recruit appropriate staff.
In regard to advertising and sponsorship I have advised the tobacco industry here that no further expenditure will be allowed after 1 July this year other than for limited advertising within the trade.
In the budget in December last year an increase of 50p was put on a twenty pack of cigarettes. This substantial increase will act to deter young people who are not already committed smokers and smokers alike.
I feel the time is now appropriate to carry out a comprehensive review of all legislation in the area of tobacco and I have asked my Department to arrange for this review. If necessary consideration will be given to a new tobacco Act.
I think it prudent at this stage to await publication of the tobacco free policy group report before committing to any further measures in this area.
