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The Commencement of Further Provisions of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts -
Ban on in-store tobacco advertising

Over View

Tobacco use causes the premature deaths of over 6,500 Irish people every year. Thousands of others become ill from tobacco-related diseases. The aim of the measures now being introduced is to protect the public from exposure to advertising that serves to normalise tobacco products, particularly among young people. Removing advertising will also support adults who are trying to quit.

Research shows that tobacco advertising is a key factor in a young person starting and continuing to smoke. The location of prominent tobacco displays in retail outlets, in itself, plays a role in promoting tobacco consumption. This placement of tobacco in close proximity to everyday consumer goods, such as newspapers and sweets, helps tobacco to be seen as another benign consumer product. Research has shown that 78% of Irish smokers started smoking before they reached the age of 18, evidence that smoking initiation is largely a childhood and teenage phenomenon. If the decision whether or not to smoke can be delayed until adulthood, over time, the numbers of people both becoming addicted to smoking and suffering smoking related illnesses can be significantly reduced.

From 1 July 2009 changes in legislation will affect all those who sell tobacco products to the public.

From 1 July 2009:
1. No advertising or display of tobacco products will be permitted in a retail premises that sells tobacco products;
2. Retailers must ensure that their tobacco products are stored out of view, within a closed container or dispenser only accessible by the retailer and retail staff;
3. The retailer may use a pictorial list (in accordance with Regulations) to inform a member of the public aged 18 years and older who intends to purchase a tobacco product as to the products that are available;
4. Retailers must display a sign at their premises informing the public that tobacco products may be sold at those premises to those over 18 years of age;
5. Self-service vending machines are prohibited except in licensed premises and registered clubs and must be operated in accordance with Regulations;
6. All retailers of tobacco products must register with the Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) (www.otc.ie)

Further Guidance for those selling tobacco products is available at www.otc.ie/uploads/English-Guidance-Docs.pdf

A registration form is available at www.otc.ie/Uploads/RetailRegisterForm.pdf