Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Legislative Programme.

John Perry

Question:

401 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will sign the commencement order for the Public Health (Tobacco) Bill, 2001; if he will introduce sections of the Bill at different times to allow retailers adapt their premises to comply with the Act; if he will enter into discussions with retailers and their representatives to ensure these changes can be achieved effectively and without imposing an undue finan cial burden on the retailers and their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11947/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The Public Health (Tobacco) Act, 2002, No. 6 of 2002, was signed into law by the President on 27 March 2002. The scheduling of the implementation process, which will require the making of commencement orders and regulations, is under consideration. I will make allowance for a reasonable lead-in time for retailers to comply with the relevant sections of the Act dealing with the retailing of tobacco products. The retailing organisations were advised of this during discussions following publication of the Bill. Further consultations will be carried out with the appropriate retailing organisations.