The Asthma Society of Ireland (ASI) has criticised Budget 2014’s “meager increase” in tobacco excise and expressed disappointment that a “stronger stance” was not taken.

ASI Advocacy and Information Co-ordinator Niamh Kelly said the increase of 10 cent on a packet of 20 cigarettes would “do little to prevent smoking — one of the most common asthma triggers”.

Ireland had the fourth-highest prevalence of asthma in the world, with one-in-10 Irish adults and one-in-five children under 14 years of age affected, outlined Kelly. More than one person each week died from the disease.

“While we strongly welcome Minister [James] Reilly’s commitment to a Tobacco Free Ireland by 2025, we feel that the Government has missed an opportunity to take decisive action on this issue, as increasing the price of cigarettes is one of the most effective ways of encouraging people to quit,” stated Kelly.