The Irish government approved legislation to raise the minimum legal age for the sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 to reduce smoking rates among adults and children. Ireland will be the first country in the European Union to implement this measure.
Government Approves Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment Bill
Recently, according to the Irish government’s official website, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced that the government has approved legislation to raise the minimum legal age for the sale of tobacco products to the legal age of 21. 2024 has now been introduced to implement the annual Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Bill.
Aiming to Reduce Adult and Youth Smoking Rates
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly’s Statement
Donnelly emphasized the importance of this change, stating:
- “It’s time for us as a society to move forward on this issue. Smoking still causes 4,500 deaths every year and remains the leading cause of disability and death in our country. My aim with this measure is to help young people avoid lifelong addiction and illness associated with smoking. Modeling shows that this measure protects not only those under 21, but also younger age groups, as it reduces their social exposure to tobacco.”
He added that Ireland’s goal is to eliminate smoking:
- “We are no longer just controlling smoking; we are seeking to eliminate it from our society. I am proud of Ireland’s tradition of leading in tobacco control, and today’s measure is another important step toward a smoke-free Ireland.”
Transition Period for Those Aged 18–21
Ireland will be the first country in the EU to implement this measure. As such, a transition period will be implemented to ensure that those over 18 but under 21 who meet the requirements to purchase cigarette products will not be affected.
Support from Minister of State Colm Burke
Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke, welcomed the government’s decision:
- “The harm caused by smoking is catastrophic, leading to numerous diseases and reduced life expectancy. We must act decisively to protect young people. This new measure will help safeguard the next generation from the many burdens of smoking and support them in living longer, healthier lives.”
He added that he looks forward to working with the Health Minister to implement the legislation promptly.
Regional Context and Future Outlook
Ireland aims to be the first country in the EU to raise the age of sale of tobacco products to 21. Latvia has already enacted legislation that will see the minimum sales age rise to 20 in 2025.
The proposed legislation would not affect the legal minimum sales age for smoke-tar inhalation products or vapes. Self 12 So far. Ireland has banned it. The sale of vapes by those under the age of 18. There are no proposals to extend this ban to 21 years of age.
