Gay Mitchell
Question:158 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received representations seeking to ban or restrict cigarette vending machines; and his views on this matter. [16278/01]
Vol. 537 No. 3
158 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received representations seeking to ban or restrict cigarette vending machines; and his views on this matter. [16278/01]
Some views have been put forward that cigarette vending machines should be banned or restricted. I am concerned over the unrestricted access to cigarettes from vending machines by underage persons. About 80% of all smokers become addicted before reaching 16 years of age. On average smokers who begin smoking in adolescence and continue to smoke regularly have a 50% chance of dying from tobacco related illnesses.