Wicklow-Wexford TD pushes for ‘smoke-free generation’ with proposed ban on cigarette and vape sales

A Wicklow-Wexford TD is proposing legislation that could eventually prevent an entire generation of young people from legally buying cigarettes and vapes in Ireland.

Fianna Fáil Deputy Malcolm Byrne is preparing to introduce legislation when the Dáil returns after the summer recess aimed at creating what he describes as a “smoke-free generation”.

The move comes as the Department of Health has confirmed it is considering similar measures as part of a review of Ireland’s tobacco control policy.

According to a report in the Irish Times, one option being examined would prohibit the sale of tobacco to anyone born after a specified date.

It would follow a similar approach being taken in the UK, including Northern Ireland, where legislation is set to make it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1st, 2009.

Deputy Byrne’s proposed Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) (Smokefree Generation) Bill would seek to introduce a similar system in Ireland.

Under such a model, the minimum legal age would effectively increase every year, meaning those covered by the legislation would never reach an age at which they could legally purchase the products.

Deputy Byrne has also raised concerns about the popularity of vaping among younger people and the way some products are marketed.

The Department of Health says tobacco causes almost 100 deaths and around 1,000 hospitalisations every week in Ireland and has confirmed that a generational sales ban is among the measures being considered.

The Irish Heart Foundation has also expressed support for the introduction of a smoke-free generation and has called for alignment with measures being introduced in the UK.

Ireland's legal age for purchasing tobacco is already due to increase from 18 to 21 in early 2028.

Further legislation currently before the Seanad will also seek to regulate areas including the flavours, packaging and appearance of nicotine-inhaling products.