Dáil passes bill banning smoking in cars with children present

The Dáil has passed laws to ban smoking in cars where children are present.

The bill was passed unanimously in the chamber this afternoon ahead of the Christmas break.

However, the law will not take effect until Gardaí have developed procedures to figure out how it can be applied.

Children's minister James Reilly said: "This legislation is a reminder to people not to light up in a car with children present.

"Where people disregard this reminder, it will serve as a punitive measure.

"I reiterate that this legislation is about protecting children, not penalising smokers."