As the Deputy will be aware, the Department of Health’s policy on smoking is to promote and subsequently move toward a tobacco free society. Ireland’s current policy document,
Tobacco Free Ireland, sets a target for Ireland to be tobacco free (i.e. with a prevalence rate of less than 5%) by 2025. Smoking cessation is a key goal if we are to meet that target. The appropriate management of tobacco addiction can significantly reduce the burden of chronic disease on individuals, their families and the health-care services.
The provision of smoking cessation services is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive and as such, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office who will follow up the matter with them.