John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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959. To ask the Minister for Health his views on the use, regulation and taxing of vape products; his further views on the submission of an association (details supplied) of 3 February 2017 to HIQA and the Revenue Commissioners on 16 February 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35876/17]

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Vaping is a relatively new occurrence. While the market share for electronic cigarettes and refill containers is growing, the long-term effects of vaping on public health are not yet known. Electronic cigarettes are regulated by the European Union (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco and Related Products) Regulations 2016. These Regulations transposed the European Tobacco Products Directive and came into effect on 20 May 2016.

The Department, in pursuing the recommendations of Tobacco Free Ireland, requested the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) to carry out a health technology assessment (HTA) of the clinical and cost-effectiveness of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical smoking cessation products and service. HIQA took full account of all submissions received in the course of the Health Technology Assessment.

Taxation is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. The Minister for Health has no role in this matter.