Kilkenny Councillor Urges Full Vape Ban Amid Youth Health Crisis

URGENT UPDATE: Cllr Seán Ó hArgáin, former Mayor of Kilkenny City, is calling for a complete ban on vapes amid alarming concerns for the health of young people. He emphasizes that the government’s recent measures are insufficient to protect youth from nicotine addiction.

Just announced, the Irish government has introduced a ban on the sale of vapes, cigarettes, and tobacco products from self-service and vending machines primarily located in pubs and nightclubs. However, this new regulation does not extend to a full ban on vapes, which Cllr Ó hArgáin argues is critical as young people continue to be exposed to these products.

Cllr Ó hArgáin stated, “The decision to ban the purchase of vapes through vending and other self-service machines is to be welcomed… However, it remains to be seen what the impact of this on young people getting access to vapes has been.” The concern is palpable as vapes are still highly visible in supermarkets and filling stations, while cigarettes are relegated to hidden cabinets.

The councillor criticized the government’s sluggish pace in addressing this issue, especially when juxtaposed with measures taken in countries like Australia, where vapes are banned except under strict medical prescriptions. “We are a long way from the decisive action taken against head shops in 2010,” he said, referencing the swift closure of those establishments.

Cllr Ó hArgáin expressed disappointment in Taoiseach Mícheál Martin, who previously received praise for banning smoking in public spaces. “Now, the great work he did is being rowed back by what I call the revenge of the tobacco industry,” he declared, pointing out that young people are increasingly seen vaping in social settings.

To combat this growing issue, Cllr Ó hArgáin is urging Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill to fulfill her earlier promises and implement stronger regulations against the vaping industry. He supports calls for the Health Service Executive (HSE) to receive adequate resources to establish a supportive program for those wishing to quit vaping.

“This is crucial,” he added, “as many medical experts say that stopping vaping can be equally, if not more difficult than quitting smoking.”

As the debate intensifies, the Kilkenny City community remains on high alert regarding the health implications for its youth. The situation is developing, and citizens are encouraged to support the call for a comprehensive ban on vapes to safeguard future generations.

For more updates on this pressing issue, stay tuned.