Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will review her decision not to initiate the process of imposing a ban on smoking in vehicles transporting children under 16 years of age (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5256/09]

Mary Wallace (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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Last July, I announced that further provisions of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts 2002 and 2004 are to be commenced from 1 July 2009. From that date there will be no advertising or display of tobacco products in retail outlets and tobacco products must be stored in a closed container. There will be tighter controls on the operation of vending machines and anyone wishing to sell tobacco products must register with the Office of Tobacco Control. The implementation of these important measures, which are aimed at protecting both children and adults from the dangers of tobacco consumption, are my key tobacco control priorities for 2009.

The harmful effects of exposure to cigarette smoke are well known as is the fact that such exposure is particularly dangerous in enclosed spaces (including motor cars). Parents and others with responsibility for the welfare of children have a particular responsibility to ensure that such exposure does not take place. The issue of introducing a ban on smoking in cars in which children under 16 years of age are being transported, will be kept under review.