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Tobacco Control Measures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021

Tuesday, 2 November 2021

Ceisteanna (1003, 1005)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

1003. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which his Department or other bodies within this jurisdiction monitor the alternative smoking options on sale here; if all forms of vaping have been tested for addictive tendencies; the research available to date here or throughout Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52847/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

1005. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the degree to which vaping continues to be tested in Ireland with particular reference to establishing if they are in themselves habit-forming or whether their use leads to a return to conventional tobacco smoking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52849/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1003 and 1005 together.

Under the EU Tobacco Products Directive, which was transposed into Irish law by the European Union (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco and Related Products) Regulations 2016, a manufacturer must notify the Health Service Executive before placing novel tobacco products, e-cigarettes and refill containers on the market in Ireland. In relation to e-cigarettes, the Directive sets maximum nicotine concentrations and maximum volumes for cartridges, tanks and nicotine liquid containers. Health warnings advising consumers that e-cigarettes contain nicotine which is a highly addictive substance are also mandatory. Manufacturers, importers and distributors are legally obliged to inform the Health Service Executive if they have reason to believe that an electronic cigarette or refill container is unsafe, not of good quality or non-compliant with the Tobacco Products Directive. Details of the risk to human health and safety and any corrective action taken must also be provided. The HSE also carry out inspections of e-cigarette and refill container manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers as part of their enforcement activities under the 2016 regulations.

In October 2020 the Health Research Board published the findings of three evidence reviews on e-cigarettes conducted at the request of the Minister for Health. The evidence reviews found that e-cigarettes are not harmless but may represent a reduction in harm in relation to smoking, that e-cigarettes are as effective as nicotine replacement therapies for smoking cessation up to 6 months and that there is an association between e-cigarette use and subsequent smoking in adolescents. The reviews also made clear that further research was needed on the long-term effects of e-cigarettes.

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