James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Health his plans to encourage local authorities that is to consider adopting a smoke free policy in all playgrounds under their control; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1470/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Ireland's public health policy objective in relation to smoking is to promote and subsequently move towards a tobacco free society. I am committed to moving us closer towards that objective. The Tobacco Policy Review Group (TPRG) is examining a number of areas which need to be developed or enhanced in order to reduce smoking prevalence in eland. The TPRG is considering the possibility of extending the smoking ban to other public areas such as playgrounds, public parks and sport grounds, educational and health campuses, etc. To ensure that this issue is progressed any recommendations in relation to this will be considered in consultation with the key stakeholders e.g. Department of the Environment and Local Authorities, Department of Education etc. I anticipate that the report of the TPRG will be completed in the coming months and that this will be brought to Government for decision.