Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health if he wil re-visit his anti-smoking policies and actions in view of the fact that 29% of the population smoke [3739/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Smoking is the greatest single cause of preventable illness and premature death in Ireland, killing over 5,200 people a year. Ireland’s public health policy objective in relation to tobacco remains 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 will be reporting to me shortly. The report of this group will build on our existing policies and legislation. This group is examining a number of areas which need to be developed or enhanced in order to reduce smoking prevalence in Ireland. The report will also examine how to develop our cessation services in order to support those people who want to stop smoking. Of major concern to me is the number of young people who are still taking up the addiction. Research has shown that 78% of Irish smokers started smoking before they reached the age of 18, evidence that smoking initiation is largely a childhood and teenage phenomenon. The "denormalisation” of smoking within our society is key tool in stopping our children and young people from doing so. To achieve this we must make smoking less attractive to children and increase its social unacceptability.

I understand that in order for such initiatives to be successful they must be supported by the public. It is also important, however, that everyone in society recognises their role in effecting change in our lifestyle behaviours such as smoking for the benefit of everyone.