Today marks World No Tobacco Day!
Group of vapes. Credit: peter dazeley / Alamy Stock PhotoThe Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has begun sections of the Public Health Act 2023 today.
Which brings in a ban on the sale by self-service of tobacco products and e-cigarettes.
The Journal reports that the current law on the sale of cigarettes through vending machines requires the use of discs or cards obtained from staff.
This also requires oversight by staff, however due to the new legislation this practice will be totally prohibited.
Evidence from the National Environmental Health Service, shows self-service vending machines are more accessible to children and teens than over the counter sales.
The ban will come into effect in September 2025, allowing time for all affected businesses to get ready for the change.
