Mary Wallace (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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I regard the reduction of tobacco use in Ireland as a key public health priority. The Department of Health and Children is pursuing a range of measures aimed at reducing tobacco use.

Price has also been identified as an effective tobacco control measure, particularly in preventing young people's initiation and subsequent addiction to tobacco. The minimum price of cigarettes below which cigarettes cannot be sold was increased to €7.14 with effect from 1 September 2008. The recent increase in the budget of 50% has brought the price of the most popular brands of cigarettes to over €8.00, making cigarette prices in Ireland the highest in the EU and the second highest in Europe. From May 2007, the sale of cigarettes in packs of less than 20 and sale of confectioneries that resemble cigarettes was banned.

The key provisions of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts 2002 and 2004 to be commenced with effect from 1 July 2009 include: no advertising for tobacco products permitted in-store, no display of tobacco products permitted, all tobacco products must be out of view and stored within a closed container only accessible by the retailer, all retailers will have to register with the Office of Tobacco Control in order to sell tobacco products, and self-service vending machines will only be permitted in licensed premises or registered clubs.

The aim of these provisions is to further de-normalise tobacco and to protect children from the dangers of tobacco consumption. Research shows that tobacco advertising at the point of sale is a key factor in a young person starting and continuing to smoke. If young people can be prevented from purchasing tobacco products there is less chance they will become addicted and suffer a smoking related illness. Restricting advertising will also support adults who are trying to quit.

The Health Service Executive provides a range of services aimed at reducing tobacco use. This work is undertaken via anti-smoking media campaigns, by increasing awareness through the formal education system, through the "Smokers Quitline" service and through its smoking cessation services.