AQW 17853/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health to detail the work of the Trading Standards Service in preventing the sale of vape products to children.

Asked by Kate Nicholl MLA on 8 November 2024

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
8 November 2024
Answer due by
25 November 2024
Answered
25 November 202417 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

Answer

This is a matter for the Department of Health given its responsibility for the health impacts of tobacco and vapes. The legislative framework here provides that District Councils are primarily responsible for the enforcement of age of sale restrictions in respect of tobacco and nicotine vapes. The Department (via the Public Health Agency) funds Tobacco Control Officers to carry out test purchasing exercises and engage with retailers to support compliance with existing legislation.

Official sources