608. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health when the legislation is coming in to ban disposable vapes being sold to under 18s; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 

Stephen Donnelly, Minister for Health: The Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill will introduce a suite of measures which aim to reduce the appeal and availability of nicotine inhaling products such as electronic cigarettes 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.

The Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill completed Second Stage on 15 June this year and it is my intention that it will be enacted by the end of this year.