262. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that a trend has been developing whereby cigarettes are being sold in larger packs than the standard 20 pack, and that this allows a lower unit price be charged, and encourages more consumption; and if he has considered any restrictions on this, or a requirement to have the same unit price regardless of the pack size. [20978/23] 

Stephen Donnelly, Minister for Health: I am aware of this trend, which has been highlighted by the Department of Finance in their annual Tax Strategy Group papers. While pricing matters generally are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance, we continue to work together to ensure that public health impacts are central to considerations in relation to tobacco pricing. 

In relation to the sale of cigarette packets containing more than 20 cigarettes, there is currently a lack of sufficient evidence that such packets impact on consumption or prevalence and therefore on public health. We will continue to monitor the emerging evidence and will take action if it becomes clear that it will have a public health benefit.