Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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126. To ask the Minister for Health if he intends to take steps to inform the public of the dangers associated with buying tobacco through unauthorised retail outlets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26349/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Combustible tobacco is a lethal product, regardless of the source, and it kills two out three of long-term users when used as intended by the manufacturer. The HSE is responsible for public campaigns communicating the harms of tobacco use and promoting smoking cessation under the Quit Campaign. There are currently no plans to amend this messaging.

Currently retailers must register with the HSE to sell tobacco products. The Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Act 2023 provides for the introduction of a new licensing system for the retail sale of tobacco products and nicotine inhaling products. Under the Act, an annual licence will be required for each outlet where tobacco products or nicotine inhaling products are sold.

Monitoring and combatting illicit trade of tobacco is a matter for the Department of Finance and the Revenue Commissioner.