Legislation removing point of sale advertising and display of tobacco products at retail outlets and licensed premises came into effect on 1 July, 2009.
• Research carried out by the Office in the second half of 2009 demonstrated that: 98% of stores are compliant with the legislation prohibiting tobacco advertising and 97% of stores are complying with the legislation regarding the display of cigarettes for sale in-store.
• Research co-funded by the Office provides evidence that children are influenced by point of sale displays.
• A National Register of Tobacco Retailers for persons selling tobacco products came into effect on 1 July, 2009.
• The National Tobacco Retail Audit – 2009 Monitoring Report showed that the percentage of retailers refusing to sell cigarettes to under 18 year olds has increased by eight points to 68%. This compares to a 60% refusal rate in 2008 and 52% in 2007.
• Smoke-free workplaces continue to enjoy widespread support and compliance.
• A first-ever voluntary smoke-free stadium GAA match was held as part of the Ulster GAA championship. The event was a success demonstrating strong public support for the measure.