Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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242. To ask the Minister for Health his views on vaping, including the measures he will bring forward to regulate it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14070/16]

Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Vaping is a relatively new occurrence. However, the market share for electronic cigarettes and refill containers is growing and, as such, the long-term effects of vaping on public health are not yet known.

The European Union (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco and Related Products) Regulations 2016 which transposed the European Tobacco Products Directive came into effect on 20 May 2016. These Regulations which are a first step in the regulation of electronic cigarettes and refill containers will give confidence to users as to the safety and efficacy of products used for vaping.

The Regulations include the following provisions:

- Obligatory health warnings advising consumers that electronic cigarettes contain nicotine and should not be used by non-smokers.

- Obligatory information leaflets setting out instructions for use and information on adverse effects, risk groups, addictiveness and toxicity.

- Mandatory safety and quality requirements setting maximum nicotine concentration levels for electronic cigarettes and maximum volumes for cartridges, tanks and containers of nicotine liquids.

In addition to these Regulations, electronic cigarettes will be further regulated in Ireland through the introduction of a retail licensing system. The legislation, approved by Government will also prohibit the sale of these products to, and by, persons under 18 years of age.

My Department will continue to monitor existing and emerging evidence on the potential harms and potential benefits of vaping, so as to inform any future decisions in this area.