Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

He should have a cigar and also take note of the great health service it has bearing in mind that it is a very poor country.

To return to the legislation, it is amending the existing legislation to comply with the judgment of the European Court of Justice that having minimum retail prices for cigarettes infringes European Union law. The ruling does not interfere with the State's ability to levy taxes and duties on cigarettes to maintain higher consumer prices. The Bill also sets out the ministerial powers on the sale and promotion of tobacco products.

I have given a different view and accept it is not popular and part of the cosy consensus here, but I say to the Minister and all of my colleagues that 30% of the people deserve to be shown a little respect on this issue. Let us stop the moralising and lectures and listen to people. If they have valid arguments, be they economic, health, social or political, the Minister should listen to them.

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