Phil Hogan
Ceist:112 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of current legal actions against tobacco companies in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31596/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 1 December 2004
Ceisteanna (88)
Freagraí scríofa
I have been advised that no legal proceedings are being taken by the State against tobacco companies. I am aware that legal proceedings are being taken by a number of private individuals against tobacco companies, however, and the State has been joined as a respondent in some of the proceedings. The Deputy may wish to note that a number of tobacco companies have instituted legal proceedings against the State about the regulation of tobacco products under the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts and the relevant proceedings are before the courts at present.