The Irish government has approved new legislation to increase the minimum legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21. The Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Bill 2024, announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, aims to reduce smoking rates, particularly among young people.
Smoking rates in Ireland have plateaued at 18% for several years, and the new measure is part of a broader effort to reduce smoking prevalence among children to zero. Minister Donnelly emphasized the urgent need for this change, noting that smoking kills 4,500 people in Ireland annually and is the leading cause of disability and death.
“My goal with this measure is to help young people avoid a lifetime of addiction and illness from tobacco smoking,” said Minister Donnelly. “This measure will protect the targeted age group and also reduce access to cigarettes for those under 18.”
Ireland will be the first EU country to implement this higher age limit, with a lead-in time allowing those already entitled to purchase tobacco products to continue doing so until they turn 21. This legislation does not affect the minimum age for buying nicotine inhaling products or vapes, which remains at 18.
Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke, supports the new measure, emphasizing its importance for protecting young people’s health and helping them live longer, healthier lives.