Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Question 466: To ask the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No. 376 of 24 May 2011, if the tobacco policy review group is considering reviewing the current tobacco control framework in view of the seizure of 6.5 million cigarettes, valued at €2.7 million, on Wednesday, 6 July 2011, as well as an earlier 4.1 million cigarettes which were seized on 25 May 2011; if the tobacco policy review group is considering specific new measures to tackle the illicit cigarette trade here; if he will outline any new measures he intends to consider as part of reducing illicit cigarette smoking prevalence here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20106/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Illicit trade in tobacco products is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners, however tobacco control is a key public health issue and every year approximately 5,700 people die prematurely from diseases caused by tobacco use. The Tobacco Policy Review Group is considering a range of measures in relation to tobacco control. I anticipate that the report will be completed in the coming months and that this will be brought to Government for decision.