893. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if his Department has undertaken clinical research into vaping, further to the publication of the Health Information and Quality Authority's health technology assessment of smoking cessation interventions, which highlighted the need for further research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37167/17]

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): My Department, in pursuing the recommendations of Tobacco Free Ireland requested the Health Information and Quality Authority to carry out a health technology assessment of the clinical and cost-effectiveness of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical smoking cessation products and services.

The results of the assessment will inform the development of national clinical guidelines which are currently being developed by the Health Service Executive in conjunction with the National Clinical Effectiveness Committee.

My Department will continue to monitor the emerging research on these products, so as to inform decisions around any future additional regulation in this area.