Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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1019. To ask the Minister for Health if he will confirm that the research that was undertaken into the plain packaging of tobacco products has resulted in strong evidence which supports the introduction of plain packaging here; if he will confirm where the strong evidence was found to support the introduction of plain packaging when both the UK and New Zealand, after long consultation decided against proceeding with such a proposal due to lack of evidence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27672/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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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. Government policy in relation to smoking is to promote and subsequently move towards a tobacco free society. There is strong international peer reviewed evidence that standardised packaging will increase the effectiveness of health warnings; reduce false health beliefs about cigarettes and reduce brand appeal particularly among youth and young adults. Standardised packaging is one of a number of measures which will be implemented to reduce smoking in our society.