Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I too welcome the opportunity to contribute to the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Bill which makes provision for the Minister to regulate in respect of activities that may promote the sale of tobacco products. In a cross-parliamentary way, I commend the previous Fianna Fáil Administration that introduced the smoking ban in 2004. It was a good day's work when people could not smoke in public places. Many of those who opposed it at the time now see the benefits in it.

Anything we can do to lessen the serious and lasting negative health impacts of smoking is important and must be welcomed. I am also conscious that at this time of the year, many people make new year resolutions to try to give up smoking. They must be encouraged and supported in every way possible in doing so. We must also acknowledge the efforts of the staff in the Health Service Executive, HSE, and in organisations such as ASH Ireland, the Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Heart Foundation, for the work they do in raising awareness and assisting people who wish to give up smoking.

I come from a family that had heavy smokers. Both my parents smoked heavily but, thankfully, I do not. As I have seen the long-term damage to health done by smoking, I cannot understand how Deputy Finian McGrath, himself a teacher, could express some of those irresponsible views he expressed earlier. I am not attacking smokers personally as this is a much wider health issue. I always respect differences of opinion and respect what Deputy Finian McGrath has to say. I am surprised, however, that he has taken the steps contained in this Bill so personally. Why does he resent its provisions so much? Is he in denial of the facts about smoking?

Almost 6,000 people die from smoking-related diseases in Ireland every year. Up to 90% of lung cancers are caused by smoking. Up to 50% of all smokers will die from smoking-related diseases. Smokers have an increased risk of cancers, heart disease, strokes, low birth weight and many other diseases. It costs the State €1 billion a year to provide health services for smoking-related illnesses. I am not trying to force my opinion on any individual who smokes. I have family members who smoke heavily. I certainly do not want to be looking into Deputy Finian McGrath's windows. However, as legislators, we must ensure the non-contamination of people's air quality and encourage healthy and fit living practices. Many of those who opposed the original smoking ban in 2004 now see its benefits.

I am concerned by the number of young people who smoke. I am not sure whether it is due to image, peer pressure or easy access to cigarettes. The best way to address this is through education and health initiatives in schools, youth clubs and the home. Parents must take responsibility in this regard and lead by example by not passing on habits that will lessen the long-term health and life prospects of their children. I recognise it is an addiction and not easy to give up cigarettes. However, smoking is a significant cost to health and to the State in providing health services.

I welcome this Bill and welcome any action in lessening the damage caused by smoking in society.

See this speech in context