Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore has urged the Government to include the regulation of nicotine pouches in proposed legislation to ban disposable vapes.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s spokesperson on children, said:
“Under proposals being brought to Cabinet today, the sale of disposable vapes will be banned, with further measures planned to restrict flavours that are likely to appeal to children.
“This is a welcome but long overdue development. It is now two years since a ban on disposable vapes was first recommended by the Health Committee and any changes are unlikely to be in place before the end of this Government’s term.
“However, I am deeply disappointed that the Minister for Health has not used this opportunity to include the regulation of nicotine pouches in the proposed legislation.
“These pouches come in the form of small bags and contain highly addictive nicotine, among other ingredients. The product, which is placed under the user’s lip and up against the gum, is sometimes branded as a safer alternative to smoking. In reality, it should be viewed as a gateway to nicotine dependency.
“Much like vaping, we have seen increased use of these pouches by young people under the age of 18. They pose a serious risk to the health and wellbeing of children and are contributing to rising nicotine addiction in Ireland.
“Cynically – like vaping products – the pouches are available in a variety of child-friendly flavours to make them attractive to younger people. Disturbingly, there is currently no regulation covering this highly addictive product.
“It is also significant that the Association of Principals and Assistant Principals have called for the HSE to issue an advisory note on the use of nicotine pouches due to their prevalence in our schools.
“The proposed ban on disposable vapes follows last year’s restrictions on the sale of vaping products and e-cigarettes to under-18s.
“But instead of taking a piecemeal approach to this issue, the Government should use this opportunity to regulate all nicotine products that impact the health of our young people.”
September 10, 2024