Eamon Gilmore
Question:99 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will establish the promised office of tobacco control; if he will outline its role and function; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14524/00]
Written Answers. - Office of Tobacco Control.
I expect the office of tobacco control to be operational by the end of June this year. A chief executive officer has already been appointed and arrangements are being made to appoint support staff and to secure accommodation. The board of management of the office had its inaugural meeting on 17 May 2000.
The role of the office is to ensure that the policy incorporated in the Towards a Tobacco Free Society document which I published on 7 March this year is implemented. It will, in particular, be responsible for co-ordinating the implementation of tobacco controls by health boards. I have asked the office to work closely with my Department, as a priority, in the formulation of a new comprehensive Tobacco Bill.
Tobacco is an addictive product that kills half of those who use it. Approximately 7,000 people die in Ireland each year from tobacco related diseases and I am committed to strong and decisive action in this area.