Reacting to the news that the Tobacco and Vaping Bill that was being considered by Westminster will not now pass into law due to the General Election, Neil Johnston, Public Affairs and Policy Manager for Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS), commented;
“It is important to remember that there is huge popular support for the measures in the Tobacco and Vaping Bill and overwhelmingly cross party support for the Bill at Westminster.”
“NICHS hope that, whoever wins the General Election, the next Secretary of State for Health at Westminster will re-introduce this Bill in the Autumn.”
“NICHS strongly supports the measures in the Bill and indeed would again call on our Assembly to go further.”
“We strongly believe that in order to best protect our young people from becoming addicted to nicotine and potentially risking their health by vaping we need stronger enforcement of the laws banning the selling of vapes to under 18s.”
“In 2016 the Assembly wisely introduced a register for all retailers who wish to sell tobacco products. We believe that the Assembly should now extend registration to vaping products.”
“Currently it is a free for all – anyone can sell vapes - making the life of council enforcement officers very difficult.”
