ASH Ireland welcomes indications from the Department of Health today (in the media) that legislation to ban smoking in cars with children could be enacted later this year.
Dr Ross Morgan, Chairman of ASH Ireland said today, “we welcome these indications that this important health legislation could now be introduced later this year. ASH Ireland first raised this issue, as a possible health initiative, with Minister Harney in 2005. In April 2010 ASH Ireland met the newly appointed Minister James Reilly and again pushed for this health initiative to be introduced – and then received a commitment from the Minister that he would proceed as soon as was feasible. We now again encourage the Minister to ensure that there are no further delays with a proposal, which has been with his Department for over seven years”
Dr Morgan went on the say, “The international evidence to support protecting children in cars from passive smoke is overwhelming. Passive smoke contains carcinogens and other pollutants, which are particularly harmful to children. One study shows that 1 in 7 Irish children are affected by passive smoke in cars and it is important that these children are protected by legislation. This is a health initiative which is gaining momentum all around the world and who could possibly argue against it”
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For contact: ASH Ireland: 0818-305055
Wally Young, Young Communications, 087-2471520
ASH Ireland 