The Irish health minister has published a plan to make the state “tobacco-free” by
2025.
Dr James Reilly has defined a “tobacco-free Ireland” as a state where less than 5%
of the population smoke.
According to the latest figures, 22% of people aged 15 and over regularly smoke
cigarettes in the Republic of Ireland.
The plan makes 60 recommendations to significantly reduce smoking over the
next 12 years. Tobacco would still be available, but at an increased cost.
The recommendations also include the introduction of a ban on smoking in cars
where children are present and new on-the-spot fines for breaches of smoking
laws.
I ? Word Understanding
on-the-spot ? at the scene of action
breach ? failure to follow the rule or law
II ? Have Your Say
1. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 40% of smokers
who want to quit make a serious attempt to do so each year, but fewer
than 5% actually succeed.
2. Public health experts say that tobacco advertising increases cigarette
consumption.
