Vapes are the 'revenge of Big Tobacco', says Taoiseach
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed personal support for a total ban on vapes, labeling them the 'revenge of Big Tobacco.' He cited health concerns and the aesthetic impact of vape shops as reasons for stricter government regulation.
Why it matters
This signals a potential shift in public health policy regarding nicotine products, reflecting a broader global debate on the regulation of vaping versus traditional smoking.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has signalled his personal support for an outright ban on vapes while outlining proposals to limit the number of vape shops.
Mr Martin described vapes as the "revenge of Big Tobacco" and said the Government should deal with the products in a "stronger way".
Speaking at the end of the Fianna Fáil think-in in Tullamore, Co Offaly, he said "vapes are nearly worse than cigarettes".
Asked if he supported a ban on vapes, he said: "Well, I mean, I'm not the minister (for health)."
Pressed on his opinion as Taoiseach, he said: "In my view, products like that that are damaging to health, we should deal with [them] in as strong a manner as possible."
Mr Martin cited the moment Ireland became the first country to implement a workplace smoking ban in 2004 during his time as minister for health as among his proudest political achievements.
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