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Electronic Cigarettes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 December 2016

Wednesday, 7 December 2016

Ceisteanna (199)

Seán Sherlock

Ceist:

199. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health his position on the impacts of usage of e-cigarettes and vaporisers in public places; his plans to legislate for such products; and the engagement he has had with officials on the matter. [38972/16]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Vaping is a relatively new occurrence. However, the market share for electronic cigarettes and refill containers is growing and as such, the long-term effects of vaping on public health are not yet known.

Currently the evidence base does not support prohibiting vaping in public places although individual organisations/companies are free to introduce an e-cigarette free policy.

The European Union (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco and Related Products) Regulations 2016 which transposed the European Tobacco Products Directive came into effect on 20 May 2016. These Regulations which are a first step in the regulation of electronic cigarettes and refill containers will give confidence to users as to the safety and efficacy of products used for vaping.

The Regulations include the following provisions:

- Obligatory health warnings advising consumers that electronic cigarettes contain nicotine;

- Obligatory information leaflets setting out instructions for use and information on adverse effects, risk groups, addictiveness and toxicity;

- Mandatory safety and quality requirements setting maximum nicotine concentration levels for electronic cigarettes and maximum volumes for cartridges, tanks and containers of nicotine liquids.

In addition to the regulations under the Directive, e-cigarettes will be further regulated in Ireland through the introduction of a retail licensing system. The legislation, approved by Government will also prohibit the sale of these products to, and by, persons under 18 years of age.

I engage regularly with my officials on this matter. The Department will continue to monitor evidence on the potential harms and benefits of these products, so as to inform decisions around any future additional regulation in this area.

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