2775. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Health whether her Department or the HSE has conducted research into restricting the sale of vaping products to pharmacies only, similar to measures introduced in Australia; if so, if she will publish or share this research; and the policy considerations currently under review in this area. [24148/26]

Minister for Health: No specific research was commissioned on this approach but consideration was given to it along with all other policy options to address the use of nicotine inhaling products, particularly among young people. The approach chosen that was to address the attractiveness and availability of these products through two Bills.

The Public Health (Single Use Vapes) Bill is designed to prohibit the sale of single use or disposable vapes. This Bill will remove these lower priced products from sale in order to make vaping less attractive and available to children. In addition it will address the environmental issues caused by the disposal of these products. The Bill has completed all stages in Dail Eireann.

The Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) (Amendment) Bill includes measures to :

-regulate the packaging and appearance of nicotine inhaling products and refill containers of such products

-prohibit the sale of products that additionally function as toys or games

-restrict the signage, display and advertising of nicotine inhaling products

-restrict flavours and provide that the Minister for Health may, by order, regulate the flavour names of nicotine inhaling products.

The Bill was approved by Government on 3 March to enter the Houses of the Oireachtas for enactment.