Stephen Donnelly – Ireland’s Minister of Health (Stephen Donnelly) is expected to receive government approval for a law banning disposable vapes. The proposal has drawn support from public health organizations and criticism from industry experts. The latter whom argue that there should be a greater crackdown on illegal sales rather than a complete ban.
Ireland’s proposed ban on single-use vapes sparks debate
According to Dublin Live, Ireland’s Minister of Health Stephen Donnelly reported on Sept. 10 that he expects to receive government approval for laws related to banning disposable vapes on environmental protection and public health grounds. Under the proposed law, disposable vapes would be banned from being sold, manufactured, or imported into Ireland altogether.
Sparking public health and industry debate
Industry experts have criticized the planned ban, stating. “Instead of demonizing such products, we should condemn unethical retailers who knowingly sell to children.”
Dan Marchant Director and Founder of Vape Club (Dan Marchant) said.
- “We should impose huge fines to ensure that we strictly adhere to age verification across the country. If they can’t buy such products, they can’t use them. It’s the way we treat tobacco and it’s the way we treat vapes. Indeed, the responsible side of the industry is pleading with the government to enforce the laws and regulations and to take strict action against companies that break them.”
The Irish Heart Foundation welcomed the ban, calling it a “milestone day” for child protection. Its director of advocacy, Chris Macey, said.
- “While many countries are taking steps to provide greater protection for the behavior of young people globally, with Big Tobacco leading the vape industry, these new laws represent what will be one of the most protected populations in the world for young people in Ireland.”
- “Despite these risks, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of Irish youth smoking vapes. Nearly a quarter of 15-17 year olds are now current users. Minister Donnelly and his Government’s stance could help a significant number of young people break free from tobacco tar addiction in the long term.”
At the same time, he emphasized that it would help to ensure that the hard-earned gains made by previous generations are maintained, with smoking rates amongst young people dropping from 41% to 13% during this period.
