Sir, – The Minister for Health’s proposal to ban all disposable and flavoured vapes on the grounds of a public health risk is ignoring reams of expert-led data, including the Government’s own research, which shows the opposite is true (“Disposable vapes to be banned and colours, flavours restricted under Cabinet plan”, News, September 10th).
Flavours are an important driver of adoption for smokers switching to vaping.
BAT Ireland supports a ban on vape flavours which appeal to those under age, such as flavours inspired by candy, desserts and soft drinks. However, the continued availability of an adult flavour range is crucial for adult smokers who want to switch to a less harmful alternative.
Banning all flavours and disposable vapes could actually increase smoking rates, contrary to the Government’s Tobacco Free Ireland ambitions.
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In 2023, the Department of Health’s “Healthy Ireland Survey” found that 25 per cent of adults who quit smoking used vapes to do so. The National Drug and Alcohol Survey found that nearly 77 per cent of vapers use vapes to get off or stay off cigarettes or to cut down on their smoking.
In 2024, the Department’s Public Consultation on the Further Regulation of Tobacco and Nicotine Inhaling Products showed that 62.8 per cent of respondents were opposed to regulating vape flavours – and 6,000 of these respondents had completely stopped smoking with the help of vapes.
A complete flavour ban would also incentivise the black market and cross-border sales, which will harm consumers, the Government and legitimate industry.
We believe the upcoming Bill provides an opportunity to introduce smart regulation to prevent under-age appeal, without undermining the success of vaping in helping reduce Ireland’s high smoking rates.
It is clear that progress is still needed to achieve Ireland’s tobacco-free goal and, as Ireland’s largest vaping manufacturer, we’re keen to play a part in this journey. – Yours, etc,
DAVID MELINN,
Country Manager Ireland,
BAT Ireland
(PJ Carroll & Company),
Dublin 18.