James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I do not oppose the section but I want to comment on a number of issues related to it. The fine for smuggling cigarettes into Ireland is €423, which is laughable given the profits involved and the fact that our neighbours fine people £5,000. I hope the Minister of State will make an order to change that. I understand it does not require primary legislation.

I hope the Minister of State will take on board the greater availability of therapies. Would she consider an order at a later date to the effect that all retail outlets which sell cigarettes also make available the current therapies which are only available over the counter in pharmacies? I ask the Minister of State not to delay. I note the HSE has no specific targets to reduce the prevalence of smoking in its plan. It is an area which should be examined in the coming year. There ought to be a very specific target.

See this speech in context