171. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health his views on banning or restricting the sale of disposable vapes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28805/23]

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly: The current legislative priority in this area is the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill. The Bill will introduce a suite of measures which when combined aim to reduce the appeal and availability of electronic cigarettes, particularly to young people. Measures contained in the Bill include:

A prohibition on the sale of nicotine inhaling products to those aged under 18.

The creation of a licencing system for the retail sale of nicotine inhaling products. Retailers will need to apply for a licence, renew it annually, and pay a fee.

A prohibition on the sale of nicotine inhaling products from self-service vending machines, temporary or moveable premises, and events aimed at children.

A prohibition on the advertising of nicotine inhaling products near schools, in cinemas, or on public transport.

The introduction of new penalties for retailers who commit offences related to nicotine inhaling products.

It is anticipated that the Bill will be enacted this year.

I note that my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Minister Ossian Smyth, launched a public consultation on disposable vapes on the first of June this year which includes a number of policy options to deal with the environmental aspects of these products.