Vapes are the 'revenge of Big Tobacco', says Taoiseach

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.